Crowborough News, May 2026, Issue 10

MAY 2026 | ISSUE 10
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2 NEWS
MAY 2026
Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news
WELCOME
WE’RE pleased to report this month
on a new campaign calling for
kindness and community spirit.
George Thomas, like many of us,
has been dismayed by the impact
recent events have had on the
town’s community spirit. And that
spirit is something many of us have
always loved about living in this
town. In fact, it was the reason I set
up Crowborough News in the first
place — to inform, bring together, and
celebrate our community.
George’s campaign is not about
taking sides on the army camp issue,
but is a genuine plea for people to
treat each other with kindness and
respect. He believes people should
be able to disagree on issues that
matter but still get along. That seems
entirely reasonable.
Fortunately, we’re entering a
time of year when that community
spirit, if it has been damaged, can be
rebuilt. Community events always
bring people together. This was
evident this month at the Chamber
of Commerce’s Business Expo, and
the reopening of the miniature
railway. And in May we have the
Boundary Walk which is always a
great event for Crowborough folk to
share together.
And in this May edition, we have
plenty to celebrate in our community.
Congratulations to Tommy Douglas
on his 100th birthday, well done
to our amazing Taekwondo
athletes who brought home
European Championship medals,
and so much more.
Iain Luxford, Editor
THE TEAM
IAIN LUXFORD — EDITOR
editor@crowborough.news
PAUL GIBSON — REGIONAL EDITOR
paul@regionalmediagroup.co.uk
JAKE HEASMAN — SPORTS REPORTER
editor@crowborough.news
DEAN COOK — PRODUCTION
design@magazineproduction.com
CONTACT
ADVERTISING SALES — 01892 577124
sales@crowborough.news
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Crowborough man calls for
community unity — let’s
disagree but still get along
BY IAIN LUXFORD
CALLING for unity and kindness, a
Crowborough man says he wants
to reclaim the town and get its
community spirit back.
George Thomas, 30, has started
leaving bunches of flowers in the
town centre for anyone to take, and
has attended the weekly army camp
protest marches — just to stand with
signs calling for people to be kind.
He told Crowborough News he was
prompted to do so following the angry
and divisive exchanges there have
been between people after the Home
Office started using the army training
camp to house asylum seekers.
But his campaign is not about
taking sides — it’s about respect. “I
think a lot of people object to the hate
and vitriol the army camp issue has
caused in Crowborough. I know there
are decent and good people on both
sides of the issue and my view is quite
simple: we should be able to disagree
and still get along.”
He admitted being apprehensive
the first time he stood at the protest
march with his message of “Love
thy neighbour”. And it did cause
some angry exchanges with a small
minority of protesters.
George said: “I wasn’t surprised but
I was confident that I wouldn’t get
attacked. If someone is just spreading
a message of kindness I don’t think
anyone could get violent.”
And although the message was a
biblical one, George said it hadn’t
come from any faith. “I don’t have a
Christian faith but that doesn’t stop
you sharing some of Christianity’s
values and messages.”
George has lived in Crowborough
since he was 15 and says it has always
been a place with a strong sense of
community. “I really want us to get
back to the Crowborough we had
where
people
looked after
each other,
looked out for
each other. If you look
up Crowborough now all you
find is the army camp issue and how
it has divided the community.”
But he said he believes the
community spirit is still there.
“Take the volunteers from Brighter
Crowborough, for example. No-one
has asked them to do it, they’re not
paid, they don’t ask for thanks, they
Club launches new member
recruitment drive
THE Crowborough Darby and
Joan Club, which has provided
social activities for the over 60s
for the past 50 years is looking
for new members.
The club has a current
membership of 50 but wants to
reach more older people in the
local community.
A Darby and Joan Club is a social
club for older people, established in
the UK after the second world war to
provide companionship, recreation,
and tea for the elderly, often managed
by volunteers.
They are designed to prevent
loneliness, offering activities
like bingo, music, day trips, and
light refreshments, fostering a
friendly community.
The Crowborough club holds
meetings on the third Thursday
of every month at 1.00pm at
George Thomas
the United Church Hall, Croft
Road, Crowborough.
Membership for men and women
is open to all over 60s living locally,
and membership costs £15 annually
with attendance fees of £5 per
meeting and a nominal charge of £1
payable if transport to and from a
meeting is required.
The meetings comprise a lunch
followed by a varied programme
of entertainment, talks or
demonstrations throughout the
year. A free Christmas lunch
is given with all the trimmings
plus entertainment, carols
and a present. Additionally
it arranges at least one coach
trip every year to the seaside or
place of interest together with a
restaurant lunch or tea.
The club runs under the umbrella
of the Royal Voluntary Service
(RVS) with 12 volunteer helpers
including Sheila Barnard as Leader
and Keith Dolling as Treasurer.
Anyone interested should ring
the number shown.
just pick up litter, tidy up our town, to
make it a better place for everyone.
And his simple message appears
to be resonating with many people.
Posts on Facebook under his
nicknamed group “kindness-simplykindness”
are getting a positive
reaction. Responding to one of
his posts with a sign talking about
kindness one person said: “This is
exactly what Crowborough needs.
Not hate and slating each other
— it’s not hard to be kind.”
And another
commented:
“The people of
Crowborough who
value integrity
and respect are
beginning to speak
out, refusing to allow
such conduct to define
or tarnish the town any
longer.” While another
wrote: “This is the Crowborough
I recognise. Thank you.”
George said he was pleased. “There
is so much negativity in the world
right now. I was always raised to
be kind and do my bit. I want to
help reclaim Crowborough. There
is still kindness here. The flowers
and my messages are all about
spreading a bit of joy.”
Pantry has a
new home
CROWBOROUGH
Pantry has
begun a new
chapter with a
new temporary
home. It has
moved from its
current location in Walshes Road
to a shop unit in Crowborough Hill
in Jarvis Brook.
And the new temporary home is
just a stone’s throw away from the
new Crowborough Community Hub
which is taking shape at the railway
station and which will be the pantry’s
permanent location.

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4 NEWS
MAY 2026
Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news
New art and youth centre
gets town council support
THE fundraising campaign for
a new youth and arts centre for
Crowborough has been given a
kickstart by the town council.
Members of the council’s Finance
and General Purposes Committee
unanimously agreed to pledge
£40,000 to the ambitious project for
the Jarvis Brook Recreation Ground.
The project, which has planning
permission, is set to cost more than
£340,000 but the council’s support,
which would be returned if the
project does not succeed, is hugely
significant because it potentially
unlocks other funding streams.
Bev Pashley, who is behind
the scheme, said an application
to Wealden District Council’s
Community Led Infrastructure Fund
(CLIF) could be as much as £200,000
but could not be submitted without
the £40,000 match funding. The
town council’s decision means that
application can now proceed.
It is also good news for the
application for funding from the
National Lottery, which is already
under consideration, as it signals
local support for the project.
The ambitious project would see the
transformation of the existing small
community Scrapstore building in the
Jarvis Brook Recreation Ground into
a vibrant community venue where
people can meet new friends, learn
new skills, and take part in activities.
The building would treble the size
of the existing scrapstore, where
Artytime, run by Bev, keeps all the
art and craft materials for people
to use. It would add facilities and
rooms for the youth club, workshops,
meetings, and community activities
for members of the community
and local artists.
When she launched the campaign,
Bev told us: “My vision is to run all
sorts of creative sessions and groups
that get people involved, not just with
art, but learning all sorts of new skills.
For example we know from talking to
young people that many of them want
to learn how to cook.”
Bev has planning permission for the
extension of the scrapstore, which is
only 12 square metres, into a proper
community venue which will be 47
square metres. She’s now trying to
raise the money to get the project
off the ground.
“We’ve spoken to the National
Lottery who have been here to visit,
and we’re in close contact with the
town council, the district council
and the county council. This is a lot
of money to raise and we really need
some proper backers — as well as
community support.”
After the committee’s decision, Bev
was obviously delighted. She said:
“Now on to the next step.
Fingers crossed our application to
Wealden CLIF is successful. Fingers
crossed and let’s keep going.”
Artytime is part of Green Transition
Crowborough, a community
organisation that promotes local
action to address climate change and
encourage sustainability. It’s a group
of eco-enthusiasts with a passion for
Crowborough who believe taking
small actions will cumulatively make
a real difference. It also includes
other groups like the Crowborough
Pantry and the Crowborough Repair
Café, as well as others.
Bev is also behind the separate
plan to double the size of the
existing skatepark beside the
Artytime Scrapstore which is in
need of upgrading. The plans,
agreed by Wealden District Council,
show the extension would vastly
improve the facility with new
ramps and obstacles. The design is
contemporary and has been designed
by professional skatepark designers.
It will be built by trained professional
skatepark builders. Again, the project
is dependent on funding.
Happy birthday
to Crowborough
centenarian
THERE was a special visitor for
Crowborough resident Tommy
Douglas who celebrated his 100th
birthday this month.
The Mayor, Cllr Natalie Whittle
presented the centenarian with a
special bouquet of flowers to mark
the remarkable occasion.
She said that Tommy is a neighbour
of hers which made it even more
special to be able to share this
milestone birthday celebration with
him and his family.
Happy birthday Tommy!
Gardens open for
Hospice in the Weald
TWO amazing gardens in
Crowborough will be among those
opening to the public to raise
money for Hospice in the Weald this
spring and summer.
Smugglers in Hoadleys Lane, and
Stone Cross House in Alice Bright
Lane will be among the 28 different
gardens across West Kent and East
Sussex that welcome visitors for the
annual fund-raising scheme.
Smugglers, with its colourful
azaleas, rhododendrons, camellias
and other spring displays is open on
9 and 10 May. Then on 18 July, Stone
Cross House, where the cottage
garden includes herbaceous beds
with a range of plants including
rudbeckia and phlox, ornamental
grasses and Japanese acers,
opens its gates.
Visitors to each of the 28 gardens
will be able to take in the sights,
sounds, and scents of the normally
private gardens, enjoy refreshments,
and pick up a few gardening tips
along the way.
Each garden provides a different
experience — from the formal
gardens at Tonbridge School, to the
cottage garden at the 18th century
thatched cottage at Little Walkhurst,
Benenden; from the three acre
garden at the magnificent 14th
century Long Barn, Weald, to the nine
gardens at the Tunbridge Wells in
Bloom event. New this year is Bailiffs
House in Hever with its wonderful
arts and crafts garden.
The first garden opens on the
19th of April, with the season going
through until 8th of September. All
funds raised help us to support adults
and children with life-threatening
or life-limiting illness when they
need it most.
A spokeperson for Hospice in the
Weald said: “As ever, we give our
sincere thanks to all the garden
owners, volunteers, and visitors who
make the open season an attractive
and successful event.”
For full details of all participating
gardens, opening dates and
times, and to book tickets,
please visit the events section at
www.hospiceintheweald.org.uk
Alternatively, you can email
fundraising@hospiceintheweald.
org.uk. or call its fundraising team
on 01892 820533.
Solicitors
becomes Rotary
Club’s first
business partner
Rotary President Ken Maynard with
Claire Nash and Samantha Norgate
CROWBOROUGH Rotary has
announced Claire Nash Solicitors
as its first official Business
Partner, recognising the firm’s
long-standing commitment to
supporting community projects
across the town.
The partnership highlights years
of collaboration between the Rotary
and the local law firm, whose team
has consistently backed fundraising
events and charitable initiatives.
Samantha Norgate, Business
Development Manager at Claire
Nash Solicitors, said: “We’re
incredibly proud to be named
Crowborough Rotary’s first
Business Partner. Being part of the
community is at the heart of what we
do, and this partnership is a natural
extension of that commitment.
We’re looking forward to working
even more closely with the Rotary to
make a positive difference.”

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6 NEWS
MAY 2026
Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news
Desperate plea for
support to save the
birthing centre
Celebrating Handel
and Rutter at the
community centre
BY IAIN LUXFORD
THE Friends of Crowborough
Hospital (FOCH) has made a
desperate appeal for support to
save the town’s birthing unit from
permanent closure.
FOCH took to social media to make
the urgent appeal as uncertainty
continues to raise fears about the
future of the unit that was closed
in the autumn. Health bosses
insisted it was temporary closure
until May 2026.
But with May around the corner,
there is still no news about when,
and even if, the much loved unit will
reopen its doors. This is despite the
local campaign support by Sussex
Weald MP, Nusrat Ghani.
FOCH said: “Ladies who are
expecting a baby or recently had
one in the last year, we desperately
need your help. Unfortunately
the powers that be, feel that not
enough women give birth at
Crowborough Birthing unit.
“If you have had a baby and wanted
to give birth at the unit we need to
hear from you and we also need to
hear from expectant mums who
want the unit open asap. We need
to show that the Birthing Unit is
very much needed!”
“We’d love to do some videos with
some of you if you are willing or if you
are happy to post a video or even a
message on here yourself of what the
unit means to you and how much you
want and need it to be open we’d be
grateful we need everyone’s help.
“Please tag your friends in this
message who you know can help us.
We’d love as many messages so we
can show how much the unit means
to this community. Ladies help us
work done magic here we can’t do
this without you!”
The response of one woman
summed up the value of the birthing
unit in the town. She wrote: “I
always intended to give birth at
Crowborough birthing centre as I
have a fear of hospitals and felt that
it would be the best environment
for me to remain calm and have
the positive natural birth that I
so desperately wanted, so when I
found out that the birth centre was
closing a few weeks before I was
due, I was gutted.
“In November, I gave birth to my
first baby very quickly — much
quicker than anyone expected — in
fact, by the time I got to Pembury
hospital I was 10cm and ready to
push, despite being told when we
called triage that it would probably be
hours yet so not to rush to come in.
“Thank goodness my husband
pushed for us to leave home when
we did otherwise my son may well
have been born in a layby on the way!
Over the following days in hospital
so many midwives commented `you
need the birth centre open for your
next one or you’ll need to be prepared
for a home birth’ despite having
various risk factors that excluded me
from a home birth in the first place.
“Having the birth centre open not
only gives people an option, but also
provides an essential, local resource
to those that don’t have time to get
to the hospital.”
To add your support visit
www.foch.org.uk/contactform/
CROWBOROUGH Choral Society put
on another wonderful concert at the
community centre before Easter.
Following its success with Mozart’s
Mass in C minor in November, the
society’s spring concert featuring
three works from two different eras.
Handel’s Coronation Anthems
and his earlier work Laudate pueri
Dominum were contrasted with
Gloria by the living composer
Sir John Rutter.
A spokesperson said it had
been “a wonderful evening
celebrating the glorious music of
Handel and Rutter”.
“Thank you to our soloist, Jennifer
Witton, to Christopher Harris
accompanying on the organ, and
to our Musical Director, Anthony
Osborne, conducting for much the
evening from the harpsichord.”
CooperBurnett to support
The Good Company People
A Crowborough based charity
which supports hundreds of local
older people to keep active and
avoid isolation will benefit from
a two year partnership with a
local law firm.
CooperBurnett LLP has announced
The Good Company People as its
chosen charity for the next two years.
To launch the new partnership,
Lucy Buck, CEO at The Good
Company People visited the firm’s
Tunbridge Wells offices to tell
TeamCB more about the support
provided by the charity. There she
was welcomed by CooperBurnett’s
Charity Committee, Lisa Connolly,
Katie Hilsdon and Ayla Clissold.
Based in Crowborough, The
Good Company People is a group
of carers, community members,
volunteers and people with
lived experience of ageing and
dementia. Its vision is ‘a world
where everyone over 65 at risk
of loneliness, including people
experiencing cognitive changes or
dementia, and those who care for
them, can live healthier, happier
and longer lives in their homes
and communities’.
It runs a number of regular activity
clubs and support circles, and has
around 400 members. Those activities
include art club, lunch club, supper
club, table tennis club, craft club,
snooker club, cinema club, walking
club, and more.
“We are thrilled and thankful to
have CooperBurnett LLP onboard;
this is a very exciting charity
partnership with so much potential,”
Lucy explained. “I can see so many
parallels with the way we operate
– with both The Good Company
People and CooperBurnett built
on trust. We meet people at pivotal
moments in their lives; moments that
feel uncertain and overwhelmed;
moments where clarity and
kindness matter.”
The charity came about following
Lucy’s experience of caring for
her late Mother, Hazel, after she
was diagnosed with Parkinson’s
Disease Dementia and supporting
her through a system that often
felt ‘clinical, disconnected’ or ‘one
size fits all’.
“We were very grateful to Lucy
for giving us such a passionate and
engaging introduction to The Good
Company People,” says Residential
Property Partner and Charity
Committee member, Lisa Connolly.
“We are now busy thinking of ways to
raise money for this amazing charity,
as well as considering our next
big challenge.
Advice and support
for beleaguered high
street retailers
BUSINESSES in Crowborough
can benefit from new tailored
business support from expert
consultants visiting them to gain
a clear understanding of the
challenges they face.
The High Street Experts have
been commissioned by East Sussex
Growth Hub in partnership with
Wealden District Council and East
Sussex County Council, to deliver
practical business support for
independent retailers and customerfacing
businesses across the district.
The move comes as Crowborough
High Street faces challenging times
with the Original Factory Shop the
latest apparent victim of the retail
downturn — adding to the closure of
Santander last year.
The High Street Experts have more
than 35 years of independent retail
and small business experience and
continue to run their own businesses
alongside this work.
Support will cover practical topics
including attracting customers,
planning ahead, building an
online presence, using social
media confidently, creating simple
on-brand graphics, improving
shop window displays, and setting
realistic goals.
Councillor James Partridge, leader
of the Wealden District Council, said:
“Everyone wants our high streets to
be the busy heart of our towns. Our
retailers and hospitality businesses
are having to adapt to a changing
world and often don’t have the time
and money to get advice.”
Businesses can find their
local Growth Hub via
www.business.gov.uk or
www.growthhubfinder.co.uk

Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news MAY 2026 NEWS 7
Major
resurfacing
set to begin on
Eridge Road
BY IAIN LUXFORD
AFTER weeks of a speed restriction
on the road between Crowborough
and Eridge major resurfacing work
is set to begin this month and will
mean overnight closures.
East Sussex County Council said
the temporary 40mph limit on the
A26 between Boarshead and Eridge
was necessary after the road surface
deteriorated in the bad weather.
The work is scheduled to take
almost three weeks place from 4 May
to 22 May and will mean the road will
be closed from 8pm to 6am each day.
Diversions will be in place.
The East Sussex Highways map
shows the work will include the road
from the middle of Eridge close to
the entrance of the Eridge Estate,
the length of the road to just beyond
Sandhill Lane — the turning to Bowles.
The East Sussex County Council
Highways contractor, Balfour Beatty
has issued the following notice:
“Balfour Beatty is working in
partnership with East Sussex County
Council to manage the highways
service across East Sussex. As part
of this, we will be carrying out
carriageway works on the A26,
Eridge Road, Eridge Green. This
includes resurfacing, patching
repairs, ironwork adjustments,
gully cleaning, adding high friction
surfacing (HFS) and refreshing
the road markings.
“Works will be carried out from
Monday 4 May to Friday 22 May
2026, 8pm – 6am, weeknights only.
We will inform you of any changes
to the dates or times via advanced
warning signs on site.
“We will be working from
Eridge Green Church bus stop to
approximately 75 metres south of
Sandhill Lane. The road will be closed
to traffic while we are working, with a
signed diversion route in place via the
A26, Bunny Lane, A267, A22 and A26,
and vice versa.
“For safety, access to properties
within the works area will need to
be limited and managed during our
working hours. If you need access,
please speak to the team on site, as
arrangements and routes may change
as work progresses.
“There could also be a delay while
the area is made safe for you to pass,
and your vehicle may be escorted by
site marshalls. This is for properties
with direct access within the closure
area only and there will be no
through route. Please be polite and
respectful to the site teams, they
are working to keep everyone safe.
Access for emergency vehicles will be
maintained at all times.”
INFORMATION FOR RESIDENTS
AND BUSINESSES FROM
EAST SUSSEX HIGHWAYS
Public Transport: We are working
collaboratively with local bus
services on this scheme, please check
with your service provider for the
latest updates.
Parking: If required, we will
put out ‘no parking’ signs and
cones on the site to advise where
parking is restricted. Please avoid
parking in these locations as it will
delay our works.
Weather: All of these works
are subject to favourable
weather conditions, for example
heavy rain may affect the
progress of the works.
Properties close to the carriageway
may experience a temporary
disturbance as this can be a noisy
process and those properties may
experience flashing lights and
reversing sirens.
We would like to take this
opportunity to apologise in advance
for any inconvenience or disruption
this work may cause, however
this forms part of our continuing
improvement for the East Sussex
highway network. Should you have
any concerns regarding these works,
you can contact us at eshcomms@
balfourbeatty.com.
On track for a
good year at
the miniature
railway
IT’S all aboard for the new season
for Crowborough Miniature
Railway which held its annual
launch during the Easter Weekend.
Visitors to the railway in Goldsmiths
Recreation ground were able to enjoy
rides on the railway which was set up
in 1989 and doubled the length of its
track with an extension in 2018. The
model boat club added to the fun at
the adjacent boating pond.
Run by volunteers, the railway
welcomes passengers every Saturday
during the season, as well as bank
holidays and Sundays during
school holidays.
Crowborough’s Mayor, Cllr Natalie
Whittle, was on hand to set the
signal to green. A spokesperson
for the railway said: “Thanks to
everyone who came down to see the
opening of the miniature railway.
We were delighted to have the Mayor
of Crowborough formally open
the railway for 2026 and drive the
first circuit.”
Thanks to Crowborough Good Samaritans
Victim needed hospital
treatment after attack
POLICE are appealing for witnesses
after a man was assaulted by two
males in Crowborough.
The appeal for information follows
the assault in a wooded area near
Palesgate Lane. It was reported on
Thursday, 9 April, after the victim
stated he was attacked at around
1am that morning.
Officers say the man was assaulted
by two males, resulting in facial
injuries which required hospital
treatment. The suspects then fled the
scene, running into nearby woodland.
Both suspects are described as
white, approximately 6ft tall and of
average build. One was wearing all
Beacon’s remarkable
reading millionaires
black clothing, while the second was
wearing a white top, jeans, and New
Balance trainers, and is described as
having blond hair.
Officers carried out house-to-house
enquiries in the surrounding area
and are now asking residents in
Poundfield Road, Crowborough Hill
near Sir Henry Fermor School, and
Green Lane towards Palesgate Lane
and the Rugby Club to check any
CCTV or doorbell footage between
1am and 2.30am on the night
of the incident.
Anyone with information, contact
police online or via 101, quoting
serial 397 of 09/04.
A Crowborough driver has asked
Crowborough News to thank the
good Samaritans who have come to
his rescue — not once but twice.
Phil Wilmowski delivers
prescriptions to people who are
housebound or isolating and twice his
phone has come a cropper. And twice
big hearted people have gone the
extra mile to help him out.
Speaking to Crowborough News
he explained: “The job can be quite
stressful so concentration levels can
be quite high. The mind fixes on the
next address and, on two occasions
in March, I have driven off with
my mobile phone balanced on the
roof of the car.”
On each occasion the phone fell off
the car and ended up on the road. He
said: “The thing is, on both occasions,
a Crowborough resident has gone
to the effort of finding my home
address driven over, and handed the
phone to my wife.
“No contact details were left by
either Samaritan so I cannot thank
the people concerned, but words
cannot describe the relief I felt on
being reunited with the phone which
contains family photos, contacts, and
links to medical teams and the office.
My thanks go out to both individuals.”
CONGRATULATIONS to Beacon
Academy’s Year 7 and Year 8
Word Millionaires!
Monitored through the Accelerated
Reader UK programme, these 6
students have read a whopping
8,243,383 words between them! An
incredible 64,343,616 words have
been read by both year groups
since September.

8 NEWS
MAY 2026
Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news
Pub’s bid to stay open
through the night for
World Cup matches rejected
A CROWBOROUGH pub’s bid to stay
open through the night during two
World Cup football games has been
thrown out because of the effect it
will have on neighbours.
The White Hart had applied to
Wealden District Council’s (WDC)
licensing committee to stay open
until 4am on 3 July and until 5am
on 6 July — for matches England
might be playing in.
Because this year’s World Cup
is being held in the USA, Canada,
and Mexico, match timings will be
affected by time zones meaning
games will be between five and eight
hours behind UK time.
In a formal objection to the
Temporary Event Notice (TEN)
a WDC Environmental Health
spokesman said: “The White Hart on
the Green is situated in a residential
area. The premises being open for
licensable activities taking place
during the early hours in the morning
during the working week are likely to
disturb local residents, who would be
expected to be asleep.”
No representatives for the pub
attended the licensing hearing, but
instead sent written details of how the
events would be conducted.
Chairman Cllr Glynn White said:
“The sub-committee made its
decision for the following reasons:
no effective mitigation has been
put forward that would ease noise
disturbance within the local
community, both at the events and
transiting from the events.
And he added the pub’s
documentation about how the late
opening would be managed “was
too generic and not site-specific”.
It should have been more detailed
about how noise would be managed
to protect neighbours.
The panel had heard how licensing
laws have been temporarily relaxed
on a national level as a result of
the World Cup. These changes are
intended to make it easier for pubs to
show most of the games England and
Scotland may play in.
• Another TEN linked to a World
Cup fixture was submitted by the
pub. This was not objected to by
Environmental Health and so will
be allowed to take place. It will
allow for extended opening hours
during the England v Panama game
due to take place on Saturday,
June 27. The match is due to
kick off at 10pm.
Smokers get AI help to quit
CROWBOROUGH smokers wanting
to kick the habit can get a helping
hand thanks to a new tool being
piloted in East Sussex.
AI Quit Coach offers 24-
hour personalised support
through WhatsApp, providing
encouragement, distraction
techniques and strategies for
managing triggers. It also helps users
to stay on track with their goals.
The tool has been commissioned
by One You East Sussex, a
lifestyle service funded by East
Sussex County Council, with the
help of funding from the Office
for Health Improvement and
Disparities, Department of Health
and Social Care.
Darrell Gale, East Sussex Director
for Public Health, said: “There
can be many barriers to people
quitting smoking and we hope
that this new tool, which enhances
current services, helps to break
through some of them.
“Whilst many people try to quit
cold turkey using only willpower,
nicotine addiction can make it
tough. Last year, more than 1,700
residents were supported by One
You East Sussex to successfully quit
smoking by accessing free smoking
stop-smoking products and expert
personalised support, which has
been shown to boost your chances of
quitting for good.
“The benefits of stopping smoking
are almost immediate — those kicking
the habit will soon see reduced
blood pressure, easier breathing and
better circulation. It is one of the best
things you can do to improve your
health and reduce your chances of
developing long-term conditions and
dying prematurely.”
There are more than 57,000 smokers
in East Sussex who have access to
stop smoking support including
nicotine replacement therapy and
e-cigarettes and 1:1 in person or
telephone support.
The new stop smoking tool, which
is available to anyone living in the
county council area who is aged
18 or over, is able to converse in
multiple languages making it easier
for those for whom English is a
second language.
Residents can access the Quit Coach
by visiting https://eastsussex.
quitcoach.co.uk/
Winnie the Pooh’s home opens to the public
THE farmhouse where the muchloved
stories about Winnie-the-
Pooh were created is to open its
gardens to the public this month
as part of the 2026 celebrations
to mark the 100th birthday of the
world’s most famous bear.
The 16th century Cotchford Farm
near Hartfield is where A.A. Milne
wrote Winnie-the-Pooh a century
ago. Just outside the village of
Hartfield in East Sussex, the sixbedroom
retreat called Cotchford
Farm features a tennis court, private
gardens, and rich literary history.
The owners are opening the
gardens to the public in support
of Ashdown Forest on the
weekend of May 16-17.
Visitors will also get the chance to
view a previously unseen sketch of
Winnie-the-Pooh by illustrator Ernest
Howard Shepard. This is one of nine
rare sketches has been bought by Neil
Reed, the owner of Pooh Corner in
Hartfield and an Ambassador for The
Ashdown Forest Foundation.
Neil will have a ‘Pop Up Pooh
Corner’ including letters written by
AA Milne and his wife Daphne at
Cotchford Farm. There will also be
Pooh bears for sale.
Ashdown Forest CEO Mark Pearson
said: “This is a unique opportunity
to explore these private gardens and
woodland and learn more about its
special role in our literary heritage.
It’s a very special year celebrating 100
years of Winnie-the-Pooh, and we
are thrilled that Cotchford Farm is
featuring in these celebrations.
“All funds from this event will
support The Ashdown Forest
Foundation, the charitable arm of
the Conservators of Ashdown Forest
tasked with raising funds to ensure
the best possible future for the Forest.
There are two sessions on each
of the two days — 10am to 1pm and
then 2pm to 5pm on both Saturday
May 16 and Sunday May 17. Tickets
cost £15 per person, per session.
Booking is essential.
Please note that the ticket includes
access to the gardens only. There is
no access to the house. Beverages
and light refreshments will be
available to purchase.
The East Grinstead Bookshop will
be bringing a pop-up bookshop to
the event, offering a range of Poohrelated
books for readers of all ages.
There will also be a raffle and an
opportunity to bid in a silent auction
for a unique painting that is being
created by artist Sue Holpin to
commemorate the weekend.
Please note that due to the nature
of the landscaping of the gardens,
wheelchair and pushchair access
is not available.
To book, go to https://
theashdownforestfoundation.
beaconforms.com/form/74709f22
Tickets are non-refundable. If
the organisers cancel the event,
the ticket price will be refunded.
For further details, email hello@
ashdownforestfdn.org.
GET IN THE SWING
OF FUNDRAISING
The Crowborough Beacon Golf Club will be raising money for charity at the
Captain’s Charity Day this month. Planned for 22 May, the event will feature
various format competitions and all to raise money for the RNLI and Brains Trust.

Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news MAY 2026 NEWS 9
Olympic champ goes back to school
DOUBLE Olympic Champion,
Matt Weston, has been back in
Crowborough to visit his former
primary school.
The international star who won
two gold medals in the skeleton
events at the Winter Olympics,
dropped in to see pupils at St John’s
Primary School.
Matt visited the school in
partnership with Dreams, the
Official Sleep Partner of Team GB
and ParalympicsGB, as part of the
firm’s ongoing partnership to inspire
the next generation through the
importance of rest and recovery.
During an assembly and Q&A
session at the school, Matt helped
pupils understand how these same
principles can apply to their everyday
lives, from concentrating in lessons to
performing at their best both in and
outside the classroom.
Pupils also got the chance to see
and touch the gold medals that
Matt brought back from the Winter
Olympics in Italy in February having
dominated the skeleton event. The
Olympic titles put the cherry on
the cake of a season which also saw
Matt become World Champion and
European Champion.
Hi successes have made British
Winter Olympic history and have
made him a national hero and
household name across the country.
As a former student at the school,
Matt Weston said: “Sleep plays a huge
role in everything I do and it really is
essential for my recovery, focus and
performance, and a non-negotiable
part of how I prepare and reset.
“That is why it was so special
to come back to my old primary
school, meet the pupils and teachers,
and share a message that has
played such an important part in
my own journey. Good sleep is just
as important for children as it is for
athletes, whether it helps them learn,
play sport or simply feel their best
every day, and if they understand that
early, it can make a real difference
for the future.”

10 NEWS
MAY 2026
Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news
Crowborough Shield pledges to continue
legal battle against the Government
THE residents’ group set up to fight
the Government over using the
Crowborough Army Training Camp
to house asylum seekers says it will
not give up its legal fight.
Crowborough Shield says it is
pressing ahead with its legal challenge
following the latest response and
disclosures from the Home Office.
The organisation raised six key
issues in its court application that
required a response from the
Home Secretary. There are more
details of these claims below but
they related to the impact on the
environment, breach of the human
rights, the lack of openness and
transparency over the decision to use
the camp, and the lack of an equality
impact assessment.
Those six claims in more detail:
1. The Habitats Regulations — the
Home Office were wrong to conclude
that development at the Camp did not
have an effect on an environmentally
sensitive site such that planning
approval was required, and the
process by which the HO concluded
that there would be no such effect
was flawed because relevant public
bodies (Natural England) had not
been given accurate information
about the former use of the Camp.
2. Environmental Impact
Assessment — the process followed
by the Government to decide whether
the development at the Camp
required an environmental impact
assessment (and the decision that
it did not) was flawed. The process
should have been objective and
transparent, but it was not — one
Government Department (Housing
Communities and Local Government)
simply gave another department (the
Home Office) approval to proceed
without proper objective scrutiny.
3. Breach of the European
Convention on Human Rights — the
process of deciding to use the Camp
impacted our rights and therefore
should have involved a fair and public
procedure equivalent to a hearing
and determination by an impartial
independent tribunal. This is one of
the most basic rights in law. In fact,
the process was secret and selfserving
and was therefore unlawful .
4. Openness and Transparency
— the undisclosed secret decisionmaking
process was an abuse of
power and the Home Secretary’s
decision to rely on emergency powers
was unlawful and done deliberately to
avoid scrutiny.
5. Emergency— the decision to
use the Camp rested on the Home
Secretary having directed herself
that a relevant emergency exists
(i.e. the risk of alleged asylum
seekers becoming homeless).
The interpretation of the word
“emergency” relied on by her is
simply wrong. In any event, a
change of policy to empty hotels
into MOD camps cannot amount
to an emergency, it is a deliberate
policy decision.
6. Equality Impact Assessment —
the Home Secretary is required by
law to carry out such an assessment
but has never produced one.
Shield said they had now received a
response from the Government and it
had “taken issue with everything that
is said in our new claim.
“A great deal of technical legal
argument has been made by them
but, in summary, their position is that
no consultation was required and that
a fair and lawful process was followed
throughout. They do not accept that
public disclosure of what was going
on was necessary at all.”
In terms of the environmental
impact, the Government has revisited
the habitats and environmental
assessment process and claim to now
have considered all the information
that we said that they should have
considered in the first place. It insists
its decision was still correct.
Shield said, as a result of the
Government’s response, even
though it disagreed with the Home
Secretary’s statement, it would no
longer pursue ground 1 (Habitats
Directive) or part of ground 2
(Environmental Impact) which was
related to the same issue.
It has also indicated it we will
not pursue ground 6 (Equality
Impact Assessment) because of
the documents that have now been
provided “although it is important to
note that we do not agree with most of
their content”.
But Shield said, despite the
Government’s response, it would
still be pressing ahead with the
claim about he way the Government
handled the process and its lack of
consultation or engagement with the
people of Crowborough.
“Overall, we do not consider that
anything that the Government has
said in its responses are a knockout
blow to our case and we are very
concerned about some of the
matters that have been revealed
in the documents disclosed by the
Government. We feel we should
continue the claim to the permission
stage assuming sufficient funding can
be maintained.”
Busy year for animal
rescue charity
THE East Sussex Wildlife Rescue
Ambulance Service (WRAS) dealt
with more than 6,000 wildlife
casualties in 2025 with the Wealden
district proving to be the busiest.
The charity, which is based at
Whitesmith near East Hoathly, said
that 1,801 of the 6,107 casualties last
year were in the Wealden area.
The total number, it said, was “an
extraordinary level of demand for
our charity” and this was partly due to
the closure of other wildlife rescues
across the county which meant
“more and more animals are being
referred to WRAS, placing increasing
pressure and workload on our staff
and volunteers”.
And it paid tribute to those
volunteers who gave more than
28,000 hours last year to make the
work possible. The average WRAS
volunteer, it said, contributes around
164 hours a year and, at the height
of summer, it can have up to 26
volunteers helping on any one day.
During 2025 WRAS also supported
34 students on work placements,
helping them gain hands-on
experience in wildlife rescue,
veterinary care, and animal welfare.
A spokesperson said: “It’s
incredible what can be achieved
when people work together for
the benefit of nature, biodiversity
and animal welfare. Thank you
to every volunteer, student,
supporter, and partner who
makes this possible.”
Film launched to appeal for foster carers
AN inspirational film highlights
the urgent need for more foster
carers in Crowborough and
across East Sussex.
‘The Run’ has been produced
by a partnership of councils and
children’s trusts across the country,
including East Sussex County Council,
to promote local authority fostering.
It focuses on an 11-year-old boy,
Tom, and what he achieves with the
support of his new foster family. The
film contrasts Tom’s need to run —
away from danger, a chaotic home life,
to get to school in time for breakfast
club because he’s hungry — with
running as a sport.
Despite the disadvantages Tom
faces before being fostered such as
not even having PE kit for school,
he’s good at running and the film
climaxes with Tom taking part in an
athletics tournament, running in a
stadium, with the support of his new
foster family.
Cllr Bob Bowdler, lead member for
children and families at East Sussex
County Council said: “The message
of this project is very simple, but so
important — we need foster carers and
we need people to foster through East
Sussex County Council. ‘The Run’
is a brilliant, emotional film none
of us could have produced on our
own, which is why this partnership
is so important.
“There are children like Tom all over
the country. If you want to make a
difference here in East Sussex, please
talk to our in-house fostering team.”
More information on fostering with
East Sussex County Council is available
at www.eastsussex.gov.uk/childrenfamilies/children-in-care/fostering
or people can call 01323 464129 for
further details.
To view the film ‘The Run’ scan the
QR code or visit: www.eastsussex.
gov.uk/children-families/
children-in-care/fostering/therun-fostering-film.

Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news MAY 2026 NEWS 11
Voters set to go to the polls
CROWBOROUGH voters are being
reminded they will need a valid
photo ID when they go to vote at the
local elections this month.
All 50 seats on East Sussex County
Council (ESCC) are up for re-election
when the polls open on 7 May. And
whatever the outcome Crowborough
will have two new county councillors
following the vote.
Currently ESCC is under no overall
control, with a Conservative minority
administration holding 22 of the
50 seats. The remaining seats are:
11 Liberal Democrats, six Green,
five Labour, two Independent
Democrats, two Reform UK, and
two Independents.
Crowborough has two seats on
the council — Crowborough North
and Jarvis Brook, and Crowborough
South and St Johns.
The current councillor for
Crowborough North and Jarvis
Brook is Conservative, Cllr Johanna
Howell, while Cllr Philip Lunn,
also Conservative, is the current
councillor for Crowborough South
and St Johns. Neither is standing
for re-election.
Neighbouring seats around the
town include: Forest Row and
Groombridge; Heathfield and
Mayfield; Maresfield and Buxted.
The nominated candidates for
election on 7 May for Crowborough
North and Jarvis Brook are (in
alphabetical order):
• Catherine Fielding (Reform UK)
• Nigel Fox (Green Party)
• Bev Johnstone
(Liberal Democrats)
• Jeannette Towey (The
Conservative Party)
The nominated candidates for election
on 7 May for Crowborough South and
St Johns are (in alphabetical order):
• Alison Arthur (Liberal Democrats)
• Martyn Everitt (Green Party)
• Sarah Jury (Reform UK)
• Neil Waller
(Independent)
• Andew Wilson (The
Conservative Party)
Polling stations open at 7am and
close at 10pm. Your poll card details
which polling station you need to use,
but election officials have repeated
their reminder that anyone wanting
to vote now also needs a valid photo
identification. More than 20 forms of
ID, external are accepted, including:
• passports
• driving licences
• older or Disabled
Person’s bus passes
• Oyster 60+ cards
• Armed Forces Veteran Cards
You can use out-of-date photo ID as
long as you look the same.
A spokesperson for the Electoral
Commission said: “If you wear a face
covering, such as a medical mask or
a veil worn on religious grounds, you
will be asked to remove it briefly so
polling station staff can check that
your ID looks like you. If you go to the
polling station without the correct ID,
you will be asked to come back with
valid documentation.”
The Electoral Commission said
0.4% of those who tried to vote at
a polling station in the May 2025
local elections were turned away
due to the voter ID requirements.
Of those initially turned away, 71%
returned to vote later.
In East Sussex it promises to be
a busy couple of years for local
government. Previously the May
2026 were cancelled to allow for the
devolution and local government
reorganisation processes to take
place, but because of delays with
those, the elections were re-instated.
Devolution — In the next couple
of years Sussex is set to get a new
decision-making Mayor who will
take responsibility for some of the big
strategic and infrastructure policies
for the whole of Sussex away from the
central government in Westminster.
Local Government Reorganisation
— alongside devolution is a separate
process looking at how councils
in East Sussex are structured. We
currently have a two-tier system with
services such as social care, roads,
and education managed by our
county council, and other services
such as waste collection, planning
and housing provided by the small
more local district council. No final
decision has yet been made but it
looks likely that this two-tier system
will be scrapped and be replaced by a
new single council, sometimes called
a unitary authority.
For more information on the 7 May
elections visit: https://www.wealden.
gov.uk/voting-and-elections/whathappens-on-polling-day/
Historic AGM
for Ashdown
Probus Club
Chamber expo success
THERE was a really positive buzz around the
Crowborough Community Centre this month for the
Crowborough and District Chamber of Commerce
business expo.
More than 30 local firms and organisations attended the
popular event which was hosted by the Chamber’s new
President, Matt Allen, and was visited by the Mayor, Cllr
Natalie Whittle.
Pine Grove Pictures
— May movies
THE Ashdown Probus Club
reached an historic milestone at its
recent AGM when it voted to allow
membership rights to women.
Peter Hobbs was elected President
for 2026-27 at the event held at
the Crowborough Beacon Golf
Club and immediately oversaw
the historic vote.
It means women will be able to
enjoy full participation in the club and
its programme of activities, including
monthly luncheon attendance,
organised walks, golf, croquet and
the varied programme of outings and
other functions.
Probus is a club for retired and semiretired
professionals and business
people. Ashdown Probus began
its 2026 outings programme with
a well-attended tour of the Tallow
Chandlers Livery Hall in the City
of London, followed by lunch at Ye
Olde Watling pub.
The first of this year’s golf events is
to be held at London Beach Golf and
Country Club Tenterden on 17 and 18
May and later this month there will be
a tour of the Salters Company livery
hall and lunch at Williamsons Tavern
in the City. Its regular visits to the
TWODS production of “Evita” and the
Rude Mechanicals open air theatre
production “The Wife” are scheduled
for Tunbridge Wells this month and
Wadhurst in July.
Club membership is drawn from
a wide area around Crowborough,
stretching from Tunbridge Wells,
Danehill and East Grinstead, to
Uckfield, Heathfield, Wadhurst and
villages and hamlets in between. Full
details of the Club and its activities
can be found on the website:
www.ashdownprobus.org.uk.
Anyone interested in membership
should contact the Secretary:
info@ashdownprobus.org.uk
A REAL PAIN — Main Screening
– 8 May, 8pm. £6 members, £10
non-members. Crowborough
Community Centre
Two cousins, David (Jesse
Eisenberg) and Benji (Kieran
Culkin), as close as brothers,
attempt to heal their generational
trauma and their relationship with
each other by flying out to Poland
to visit their late grandmother’s
house. They join a group on a
Jewish heritage tour, a highly
emotional and revelatory journey.
David and Benji are at opposite
ends of the emotional spectrum.
The former is a diligent micromanager
of his pain. The latter is
charismatic, but volatile; so much of
an active listener that he’ll cry out,
“Oh snap!”, when a group member
shares that he’s a survivor of the
genocide in Rwanda.
YESTERDAY — Golden Oldies – 19
May, 1.30pm. FREE for everyone,
Crowborough Community Centre
Jack is a struggling musician who,
after being hit by a bus during a
global power failure, wakes up in
a parallel universe where nobody
has ever heard of The Beatles.
Discovering that he is the only
person who can remember the
band, he finds fame and fortune
performing the songs as his
own work. All goes well until he
realises how much he loves Ellie,
his childhood friend, and former
manager, who cannot deal with his
new-found celebrity. What follows is
a lovely funny fairy tale, with a happy
ever after ending, and a score of
fabulous songs.

12 NEWS
MAY 2026
Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news
Fantastic first folk festival
CROWBOROUGH has hosted its very
first community folk festival…and it
won’t be its last.
The one day event took place at
the Community Centre and was
organised by Brian Child, who
leads ukulele and sea shanty U3A
groups. More than 140 people came
to enjoy music from a range of
local performers.
Featuring a range of styles from
very traditional to modern singer
songwriter tunes, the power of border
Morris to stepping to concertina,
the three hour show featured
eight different acts and was a hit
with its audience.
Brian said it had taken a lot of hard
work and community effort bringing
the festival together, but it had
certainly been worth it.
“It was a year of finding suitable
performers that would not only
showcase the various folk genres
but also compliment each other.
Although my background was with
marching band contests and filming
folk shows this was a completely
different remit.”
Although the U3A has various
musical interest groups, folk
was missing, Brian added. “So
I called on friends in the folk
world to put together a folk show
that would attract not only our
members but also the general public
in Crowborough.
“It took the management of
our Community Centre, the
Crowborough players an Amdram
group, our U3A Committee,
great sound guys from TW Music
Production Ltd., and a very good
friend of mine Gavin Atkin. I also
roped in one of our local hostelries,
The Blue Anchor. We settled on
eight acts all from in and around
Kent and Sussex.”
Only two groups of performers
are U3A groups, Goudhurst and
District U3A Country Dance Tunes
Group and the Crowborough U3A
Sea Shanty group. Other performers
were The Martlets Community
Folk Chorus, Julie and Gavin Atkin,
Black Powder Morris, Sue and Tom
Evans, Will Duke and our local folk
hero’s Di and John Cullen. A true
Community project.
Brian said he was delighted with
the success of the event. “The show
was a hit and will be going ahead for
2027.” He added.
Beacon Academy showcases
talent at Spring Dance Show
STUDENTS from Years 7 to 11 at
Beacon Academy in Crowborough
wowed audiences with a vibrant and
diverse Spring Dance Show.
The pupils from years 7-11
presented a programme of dance
works developed through curriculum
lessons and extra‐curricular sessions.
The performance was enjoyed by
an enthusiastic audience of friends,
families, staff and members of the
local community.
The show featured a wide
variety of styles, including
lyrical dance, cheerleading,
musical theatre, boomwhackers
and a Peaky Blinders‐inspired
routine. Many of the dances were
student‐choreographed, highlighting
the creativity, confidence and
teamwork of the performers.
In addition to performing on stage,
students played a vital role behind
the scenes and front of house,
supporting sound and lighting,
ticketing and interval refreshments.
Year 11 students Bethan and
Lexi did an excellent job as event
hosts, confidently introducing
each performance.
Beacon Academy was delighted
to welcome Crowborough Town
Mayor, Cllr Natalie Whittle,
and Cllr Martyn Garrett from
Crowborough Town Council, who
joined in celebrating the students’
achievements. The academy
also extended its thanks to Mrs
Goldsmith for leading the event,
alongside staff and the site team,
for helping to make the show such a
memorable success.
Cliff danger warning as
weather improves
VISITORS to East Sussex’s
spectacular coastline are being
urged to stay safe around the
county’s chalk cliffs.
Every year, thousands of tonnes
of chalk falls from the cliffs which
stretch from the edge of Eastbourne,
past Beachy Head, the Seven Sisters
and Seaford Head.
Despite warning signs, people often
stand near the edge of the fragile cliffs
to take a look at the beach below or
take a selfie or walk along the beach
close to the base of the cliffs.
With the warmer weather attracting
more visitors to the area, councils and
organisations along the East Sussex
coast are highlighting the dangers
and encouraging people not to take
unnecessary risks.
An East Sussex County Council
spokesperson said: “Chalk cliffs are
extremely unstable and can fall at
any time, without warning. There
are many overhangs and cracks
along East Sussex’s cliffs that visitors
may not be able to see, and often
people underestimate the risks
they are taking.
“We all want people to come to
East Sussex and enjoy its beautiful
coastline but would urge people to do
so safely and be aware of the danger
that chalk cliffs present.”
Despite careful monitoring of the
cliffs, the vast majority of falls along
the coast happen with no warning.
As well as staying away from the
edge of cliffs, visitors are urged to stay
away from the cliff base and be aware
of tide times to avoid getting cut off by
the incoming tide or forced to walk
beneath the cliffs. Tide times are
available at www.tidetimes.co.uk
If visitors see anyone in danger or
witness someone who has fallen, they
are urged to call 999 immediately
and ask for the Coastguard and not
attempt to rescue them.

Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news MAY 2026 NEWS 13
Be “deer aware”
this spring
DRIVERS using roads on and around
the Ashdown Forest are being asked
to be ‘deer aware’ this spring to
avoid colliding with the animals.
East Sussex County Council is
reminding people to take care when
driving on rural roads, particularly
during the next few months, as the
risk of encountering the animals
increases in April and May when
young deer are born.
There are an estimated 74,000 deerrelated
traffic collisions in the UK
every year and the county council is
urging drivers to take note of warning
signs in areas where deer are known
to cross regularly. Hundreds of those
sadly happen on Ashdown Forest.
Deer cross roads all year round
but motorists are being reminded
that the animals may appear on
the road unexpectedly during
the spring months.
Motorists are advised to slow down,
stay alert and be prepared to stop
when they see a warning sign or are
travelling through a heavily wooded
stretch of road.
People should take particular
care at night and around dawn and
dusk when deer are most likely
to venture out.
The Deer Aware website offers tips
to help drivers stay safe on rural roads
this spring Safety Advice to Avoid
Deer Collisions.
Drivers are advised to use full-beam
headlights at night if no other cars are
around, as they will reflect the deer’s
eyes, but dip their headlights when
they see a deer to avoid startling it.
Deer often travel in groups so if
drivers see one crossing the road they
should slow down and drive with
caution as others may follow.
More information and advice
is available on the Deer Aware
page on the council’s website at
www.eastsussex.gov.uk/roadstransport/roads/road-safety/deer
Frustration as Government
delays council shake-up
EAST Sussex County Council says
it is “frustrated” and “bitterly
disappointed” the shake-up of local
councils in the county has been
delayed by the Government.
Under the reorganisation plans the
existing “two tier” system is due to
be replaced by a single, or “unitary”
authority which will be responsible
for all local services.
This will mean the scrapping of our
existing councils — ESCC at county
level and Wealden District Council —
replaced by one council.
The sticking point is how big and
what shape that one council should
be. ESCC wants it to cover the whole
of East Sussex, the Government
thinks it would be better if parts of
Factory Shop
closes its doors
THE staff of Crowborough’s Factory
Shop took to social media this
month to thank local people for
their support.
As the team closed the doors for the
East Sussex — including Peacehaven
and Falmer — were moved to
Brighton City Council to make
its area bigger.
So it has delayed making a decision
until a public consultation can take
place on this new revised plan. ESCC
has called on the Government to
“urgently reconsider”.
A spokesperson for ESCC said: “We
are frustrated that Government is not
ready to make a decision about the
future shape of Local Government in
East Sussex, but will instead consult
on a variation of the One East Sussex
proposal after the elections in May.
“It is bitterly disappointing that,
while the Government has largely
accepted the case that East Sussex
final time after 18 years in town, they
posted a picture on Facebook.
It said they wanted to thank “all
would flourish best as a unitary
county, their variation would
see Peacehaven, Telscombe,
East Saltdean and Falmer parish
transferred to Brighton and Hove to
bolster its footprint. Communities
in these areas have already
vigorously opposed being severed
from East Sussex.
“We await further detail from
government about the implications
of this and the specifics of the
consultation. We will be asking
Ministers to urgently reconsider, and
in the meantime, we will continue
working closely with our partners to
protect local services and secure the
best possible outcome for the people
and communities of East Sussex.”
our lovely customers and friends
we have made during our 18 years
in Crowborough.”
Trusted, respectful and caring
every step of the way
Led by Stephen Tester, a trusted name
for over 30 years, Stephen Tester Funeral
Directors believes every goodbye should
be personal and true to the life it honours.
That belief guides everything we do.
Alongside traditional services, we arrange
unattended cremations, provide our
Beacon House Chapel for reflection and
farewells, and offer pre-paid funerals
through Golden Charter.
At every step, you’ll be supported by
Stephen, Kim, Roy, and our dedicated
team, offering kindness, understanding,
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14 NEWS
MAY 2026
Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news
Friendship theme for forest’s
poetry competition
THE Ashdown Forest Foundation
has launched its annual poetry
competition celebrating the 100th
anniversary of Winnie-the-Pooh.
Entrants are invited to write on the
theme of ‘Friendship,’ inspired by
Winnie-the-Pooh and in celebration
of the anniversary of A.A. Milne’s
iconic character.
Ashdown Forest was the setting for
many of Milne’s classic Pooh stories
and is home to the ‘Hundred Acre
Wood’ and ‘Pooh Sticks Bridge.’
The competition — organised in
partnership with the Royal Literary
Fund — has added an additional
category for 2026 with younger
children now able to participate.
The categories are Primary (6 -11
years), Secondary (11-17 years)
and Adult (18+). The competition
is free to enter and Friday 8 May is
the closing date.
Mark Pearson, Chief Executive
Officer at Ashdown Forest,
said: “We are thrilled to partner
again with the Royal Literary
Fund and The Ashdown Forest
Foundation on this third annual
poetry competition.
“This year focuses on friendship – a
theme inspired by the centenary of
the first Winnie-the-Pooh stories,
which were themselves inspired
by the heaths and woodlands of
Ashdown Forest, home of the original
‘Hundred Acre Wood’.
“We would like to welcome
and thank the remarkable panel
of judges who we expect will
have a tough job selecting this
year’s winners.”
This year’s judges include:
• Multi-award-winning
children’s author,
poet and former
Children’s Laureate,
Joseph Coelho OBE
• Jane Riordan, author of the
authorised Winnie-the-Pooh stories
inspired by A.A. Milne’s classics
• Broadcaster
Gyles
Brandreth, lifelong
Winniethe-Pooh
fan
and author of
Somewhere, a
Boy and a Bear:
The Remarkable
Life of A.A.
Milne and
the Legacy of
Winnie the Pooh
• Author, educator and
Ashdown Forest Foundation
Trustee, Kathryn Aalto
• and Fiona Sampson, leading
poet, literary biographer
and RLF Trustee.
RLF Chief Executive, Edward Kemp
said: “We are delighted to welcome
Gyles Brandreth, Joseph Coelho
and Jane Riordan, along with our
trustee Fiona Sampson, as judges
for this year’s Ashdown Poetry
Competition, in partnership with the
Royal Literary Fund.
“This year carries special
significance as we celebrate the
enduring legacy of A. A Milne. His
extraordinary generosity continues
to shape the lives of writers today:
over the past fifty years, his estate
alone has enabled the RLF to
distribute more than £29 million
in hardship grants, education and
outreach programmes.”
Niamh Mahoney, Ashdown Forest
Visitor Experience and Volunteer
Development Manager, said: “It
has been a pleasure to work on this
competition since its inception, and
to have seen the growing number of
entrants each year who have shared
their literary talent and passion for
Ashdown Forest.
“This year we are excited to open
up the competition to a younger
age group for this special year of
celebrations of Winnie-the-Pooh
and his friends.”
The winners and runners-up for
each category will be announced
on Monday 8 June 2026, with the
winners invited to meet the judges at
a special event in Ashdown Forest on
Tuesday 7 July 2026.
To enter, go to Poetry competition
2026 | The Conservators
of Ashdown Forest
Beat the Bounds and keep
community tradition alive
DON’T miss one of Crowborough’s
best-loved events this month. It’s a
highlight of the community calendar.
The town’s annual Boundary Walk
will be taking place on Sunday 10th
May 2026 and is based on an ancient
custom of “beating the bounds”. And
every year hundreds of residents
keep the tradition alive.
When maps were rare, it was usual
for members of the community to
walk the boundaries of the parish.
On Rogation Day, the parish priest,
together with church wardens, would
lead a procession of walkers.
Armed with birch or willow boughs,
the processional walkers would
beat the parish boundary markers
and priests would pray for the
protection of the harvest to come. The
ceremony had an important purpose
— checking and remembering the
boundary was a way of preventing
encroachment by neighbours.
The Crowborough Boundary
Walk is approximately 10 miles and
takes in some terrific views of the
magnificent countryside around
the town in an Area of Outstanding
Natural Beauty (AONB).
It is open to everyone but part of the
walk is over rough terrain with stiles
to negotiate. It takes approximately
three hours to complete, after which
walkers will have beaten the bounds.
The start is on Eridge Field at
Goldsmiths Recreation Ground, (next
to the car park).
To allow walkers to spread out,
there will be a staggered start
between 9am and 10.30am.
At the three-mile point, all walkers
will receive a chocolate bar to keep
them energised to the end!
News from Rotherfield
UPDATE from Rotherfield
Parish Council.
• The council has agreed to install
solar lights in the parish bus
shelters on the Forstal at Eridge.
• The council is considering buying
another, more portable Speed
Indication Device (SID).
• The council plans to produce
monthly information articles
regarding highways work and who
is responsible for them.
• The council
has welcomed
the fact that gas
main works on the A267 are
nearing completion.
• The council has agreed to clear
up the footpath (ROT/22/2)
which runs behind Court
Meadow Close. This should be
the responsibility of East Sussex
County Council but no funding has
been allocated this year.
MARATHON FUNDRAISER
Well done to Yasmine Lewins who
completed the London Marathon
raising more than £1,000 for Growing
Hope, a local charity that supports
children and families.
Youth and Arts
Centre fundraiser
A FETE to raise funds for the
ambitious project to create a new
youth and arts centre in Jarvis
Brook takes place later this month.
The community fete is being
held to raise money towards the
plans to double the size of the
Artytime Scrapstore to create a
new youth and arts venue, and also
for a large extension to the Jarvis
Brook Skatepark.
Planned for the Jarvis Brook
Recreation Ground on Bank
Holiday, Monday, 26 May, the
community event runs from 11am
to 2pm. It promises a wide range
of fun activities and stalls for
everyone to enjoy.
The ambitious £300,000 project will
see the transformation of the existing
small community Scrapstore building
in the Jarvis Brook Recreation
Ground into a vibrant community
venue where people can meet new
friends, learn new skills, and take
part in activities.
The scheme is the brainchild of Bev
Pashley, who runs the community
interest company ArtyTime. This
collects arts and crafts materials
from local individuals, businesses
and organisations, which otherwise
would go in the bin, and provides
them for the community to use
for art and craft projects. Artytime
already works with various schools,
nurseries, care homes, church
and youth groups.
Her plan is to treble the size of
the existing scrapstore, where she
keeps all the art and craft materials
for people to use, and add rooms
for the youth club, workshops,
meetings, and community activities
for members of the community
and local artists.
Bev has planning permission for the
extension of the scrapstore, which is
only 12 square metres, into a proper
community venue which will be 47
square metres. She’s now trying to
raise the money to get the project
off the ground.
But raising the money will not be
easy. “I know it’s ambitious but I’m
passionate about this place the people
here and if you don’t try, you’ll never
know!” Bev said.

Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news MAY 2026 FEATURE 15
At home in East Sussex
— Rudyard Kipling
BY IAIN LUXFORD
We are lucky enough to live in a
wonderful part of the world. As
Spring and Summer bring us better
opportunities to get out and about
exploring in East Sussex, we’ll take
a look at places you might want
to visit. First up is Batemans in
Burwash, home to one of England’s
greatest writers.
“I’m afraid Mr Kipling has just
popped out into the village to post a
letter. Would you care to wait?”
If you visit Bateman’s in Burwash
you won’t be greeted with these words
nowadays, but such is the atmosphere
of the beautiful sandstone Jacobean
country house that sits nestled in its
idyllic countryside setting, that it is
easy to imagine you might.
Most people will know Rudyard
Kipling from The Jungle Book, perhaps
the Just So Stories, or the poem If,
which is often voted the nation’s
favourite verse. It’s works like these,
plus a host more, that have made
him a household name both at home
and abroad. What a lot of East Sussex
residents don’t know is that for the
last 34 years of his life, this county was
his beloved home.
Bateman’s at Burwash, built in
1634 and home to the Kipling family
from 1902 until Rudyard’s death in
1936 has to be one of my favourite
places, and, on a warm, sunny spring
day, you’d be hard-pressed to find a
more restful and peaceful place to
linger. If you haven’t yet sampled its
many charms I would urge you to
put it at the top of your list for things
to do this summer. “A beautiful
cup in a saucer to match,” is how
Kipling himself described the house
and its grounds.
Quite apart from the beauty of the
house, the 33-acre estate, and its
accompanying water mill, the strong
sense of history hangs in the air and
whispers through every corridor of
this house, which was designated as a
world heritage site in 1961. Preserved
by the National Trust to give visitors
a first-hand experience of what it was
like to be part of the Kipling family in
the early 20th century, it feels almost
as though the master of the house
has simply stepped out on an errand,
perhaps to post his latest manuscript
to his publisher, and will return in the
blink of an eye.
Generally I have mixed feelings
about this kind of recreation and
preservation, as a moment frozen
in time has to be done well if not to
seem contrived, too romantically
posed, or even, when done badly,
too Disneyfied. But at Bateman’s
it works and the atmosphere and
ambiance brings a reality and
authenticity to a historical picture.
In his study Kipling’s small round
spectacles rest on the desk where
he took them off briefly to stretch
his legs and unsatisfactory drafts of
his latest work fill the waste paper
bin and lay discarded around it.
Meanwhile in his son’s room a
hastily replaced cricket bat has been
put back in the cupboard without it
being closed properly.
It’s difficult to properly understand
Rudyard Kipling, the man, from
his literary works, but at Bateman’s
you have a fuller picture of how
he lived his life. It captures the
more mundane, making it easier
to identify with.
In fact this is something the National
Trust generally does very well. You
won’t find any slightly discoloured,
moth-eaten wax models. Just a
contextual background picture into
which the visitor is invited to use
his or her imagination to insert the
human element. Wandering through
the spring flowers beside the stream
to the watermill or admiring the
house from the lime tree hedges, it’s
impossible not to imagine the great
man doing likewise and going about
his day-to-day life. History moves
out of the text book and becomes
something much more tangible that
is easier to grasp and engage with.
Leaving Bateman’s after a visit
you will probably have a better
understanding of Kipling’s literary
history, you’ll almost certainly have
indulged your senses in the beauty
of the place, but you’ll also leave with
a sense that you only just missed the
great man himself.
And, like me, you can enjoy the
thought that the county you get to
call home is as special now as it was
in Kipling’s time. Indeed, he loved
it so much he couldn’t decide which
part of its variety he was most fond of.
“I’m just in love with all these three,
The Weald and Marsh and the Down
country; Nor I don’t know which
I love the most, The Weald or the
Marsh or the white chalk coast”.
For more information about a
visit to Bateman’s, visit the National
Trust website.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/
sussex/batemans

16 CROWBOROUGH TOWN COUNCIL
MAY 2026
Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news
Crowborough Town Council update
Crowborough Town Council is working hard to protect the services and facilities that matter most to our
community — and to make sure residents are kept up to date on what’s happening in the town. From health
services and transport to civic awards and local planning, here’s the latest news.
Making the most of longer
days and milder temps
Get your
walking
shoes on!
HAS the recent spring weather got
you thinking about making the most
of the outdoors? We often travel
miles for a “scenic view,” forgetting
that some of the best walks start
right at the end of the driveway!
Crowborough Town Council look
after many of the green spaces
across the town for the community
to enjoy, and as the days stretch out,
it’s the perfect time to rediscover the
nature on your doorstep.
Solar Panels
THE council decision to install solar
panels on some of our buildings is
starting to pay dividends.
Our Wolfe Shed solar panels have
been up and running since the end of
September and produced 2486kWh
or units of electricity in 2025. This is a
20kWp PV system and has generated
a further 4255kWh in 2026 so far,
providing about half of the shed’s
electricity needs. We’re really making
the most of the sunshine with the
battery also charging, enabling
us to make use of cheap night
The Bluebells in our nature reserves
have been amazing this year, the
aptly named Bluebell Wood provides
a tranquil oasis of green (and blue
in season!) in the heart of the town
and the nature reserves have been
carpeted with blue which is now
giving way to the wild garlic.
You don’t need a map or a massive
plan — just a pair of boots and twenty
minutes. Whether it’s a quick loop
through the Country Park, a walk to
Join the Youth
Ambassador Board
THE Youth Ambassador Board is
made up of young people (year
9,10,11 or 12 at school) who live in
Crowborough (or within 3 miles)
and have a passion for their town,
giving them a chance to make a
difference in the town including:
• The chance to get the voice
of young people heard by
Crowborough’s elected
local councillors
• Finding out about what’s
happening and what’s
planned for the town
• Impacting decision making in a
real-world setting
• Representing others who may find
it difficult to be heard
time electricity.
The Pinegrove PV system is now up
and running. An impressive 100kWp
PV system, this is more than 10x what
most homes have on their rooftop.
As the system is new, we don’t have
any figures to share at the moment
but the modeling for this PV system
shows a potential to provide an
impressive 45% of this large, multi
use building’s energy needs.
Each year the PV system will reduce
Pinegrove’s carbon footprint by 22
tons. Over the next 20 years, (and
• Championing young people’s
issues in Crowborough
• A written reference from the
council that can be used for a
future school, college, university
or work application
the shops or just sitting on a bench
to watch the wildlife at the Ghyll, it’s
the perfect time to trade screen time
for green time.
what lasts for 20 years in this day in
age besides PV panels?)
The Pine Grove PV system will save
the equivalent of 648,539 km being
driven in a petrol car, 4,169 trees
planted or 464 long haul flights.
It also gives us at Crowborough
Town Council, the opportunity to
hear what young people want —
first hand as well as help to prepare
future leaders.
There are seven ambassadors in
total — four young people elected
via Beacon Academy and three from
any secondary school in the area, coopted
by a panel of councillors.
Applications for co-option are now
open and closing date is 22 June 2026
To find out more, you can visit
www.crowboroughtowncouncil.
gov.uk/about-us/youth-ambassadorboard/
, or give us a call on
01892 652 907, or email deputy@
crowboroughtowncouncil.gov.uk,
IF you’re up for a more challenging
walk, the annual Boundary Walk,
organised by our events team
is approximately 10 miles and
takes in some terrific views of the
countryside around the town.
Taking place on Sunday 10th May,
it starts at Eridge Field at Goldsmiths
Recreation ground with a staggered
start between 9am and 10.30 to allow
walkers to spread out.
It’s free to join in and the route will
be marked but we also encourage
walkers to download the free App
— WHAT3WORDS to their smart
phone. There will be WHAT3WORDS
location at key points on the route to
help you find your way as well as our
usual signs and members of staff.
At the three-mile point, all walkers
will receive a chocolate bar to keep
them energised to the end! In line
with Crowborough Town Council’s
aspiration to minimise its impact
on the environment, walkers are
encouraged to bring along their own
filled, reusable water bottle rather
than plastic bottles to keep hydrated.
www.crowboroughtowncouncil.gov.
uk/whats-on/councilevents/
Time to get growing
THIS time of year is a great
time to get growing, and there’s
nothing better than growing
your own produce!
If you don’t have a big outside space
but want to do more gardening,
maybe you’ve been thinking about
taking on an allotment . .
Did you know that Crowborough
Town Council have three allotment
sites in Crowborough?.
There’s currently a waiting list
for our Pilmer Road allotment site,
but plots are currently available
NOW at our Owlsbury Farm and
Herne Road sites.
Give our Allotments team a call on
01892 652907 to find out more.
As a Crowborough Town Council
allotment holder, you can even get
involved in this years’ allotment
competition.
Find out more on our website:
www.crowboroughtowncouncil.
gov.uk/services/allotments/.
NEXT MEETINGS
Tuesday 5th May Environment Committee
Monday 11th May Planning and Development Committee
Tuesday 12th May Full Council Meeting (Annual Statutory Meeting)
Tuesday 19th May Sports & Recreation Committee
All meetings are held at Pine Grove Council Offices and are
open to the public. Check our website for timings.
CROWBOROUGH TOWN COUNCIL
Council Offices, Pine Grove, Crowborough, TN6 1DH
Telephone: 01892 652907
Email: info@crowboroughtowncouncil.gov.uk
Website: www.crowboroughtowncouncil.gov.uk
Facebook: @crowboroughtowncouncil
X: @CrowboroughTC • Instagram: @CrowboroughTownCouncil

Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news MAY 2026 FEATURE 17
Eric Oliver — Crowborough’s
four times world champion
IN recent months it has been
wonderful to celebrate having
homegrown sporting world
champions in our midst, but did
you know one of the most famous
names in motorcycling history was
from Crowborough?
And Eric Oliver was not only
world sidecar champion once, but a
remarkable four times. But it was not
only his title wins that made his name.
Born in 1911, Eric came from
Crowborough and began grass
track motorcycle racing in 1929-30.
An apprenticed motor engineer,
his passion for motorsport was
interrupted by the second world war
in which he flew as a flight engineer
in Lancaster bombers, completing
more than 40 raids.
The war over and his love for
motorcycling rekindled, Eric would
go on to compete in various versions
of the sport. But it was in sidecar
racing that he truly excelled and
his 18 grand prix victories gained
him four world championships
between 1949 and 1954.
According to Classicbikehub.uk
despite those 18 grand prix victories,
Eric was rarely satisfied. And this is
what drove him to success. When
he lost a race or made a mistake,
he wanted to know why he had
gone wrong. He did not make
excuses or blame others. He simply
corrected the problem.
Keeping fit for racing was not
quite as scientifically controlled as
it is now among elite motorsport
athletes. Apparently, Eric’s formula to
maintain his racing weight of 11 stone
was simply to give up eating until
the excess poundage disappeared.
“I stopped eating for a few days
whenever my leathers felt tight,” he is
reported as saying.
As well as dominating sidecar
racing, Eric was also determined to
take the world’s one-hour sidecar
record over 100mph for the first time.
In his attempt in Paris he averaged
101mph for 47 minutes before,
agonisingly, the rear tyre of his 596
Norton gave out.
The replacement tyre lasted a little
longer, 50 minutes. With a third tyre
fitted, Eric was forced to slow down
and stay just ahead of the existing
92mph record. The tyre held and
Eric took the record at 95mph, later
raising it to 97mph in 1950.
In 1952 Eric’s progress was
interrupted by a crash at a minor
meeting in Bordeaux where both
he and his sidecar partner, Dobelli,
each broke a leg. But, in true
uncompromising style, he was
determined to defend his world
title. Eric reappeared in the Belgian
GP in early July with his leg still
encased in plaster. Amazingly he
convinced officials that he was
still capable of racing. Oliver led
from the start eventually took a
split-second victory.
By 1954, Eric Oliver realised the
glory days were over for Norton
whose bikes he loved, and he retired
from GP racing to open a motorcycle
shop in Staines. But he never lost
interest or enthusiasm. For a while
he raced a Lotus sports car, but
motorcycles were his first love
and he returned to the Isle of Man
TT in 1958 with a woman sidecar
passenger, Pat Wise. They finished
10th at 59.95 mph.
Oliver’s last TT appearance was in
1960 with passenger Stan Dibben
but they had a bad crash in practice
with Oliver breaking his back in
two places and Dibben was nearly
decapitated. Perhaps unsurprisingly,
both men decided to retire from
racing after this.
Sadly, Eric Oliver, a champion
still remembered fondly, suffered a
stroke from which he died in 1980 and
a unique motorcycling chapter was
closed. He was then aged 68.
Reference: www.iomtt.com,
www.classicbikehub.uk/features/article/
eric-oliver-profile/
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18 FEATURE
MAY 2026
Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news
A walk in the Cuckmere Valley
— chalk horses, smugglers,
and King Alfred the Great
Editor, Iain Luxford goes
for a countryside walk
MAY is National Walking Month and
is a good opportunity to get out and
about in the countryside around
Crowborough and the rest of East
Sussex to celebrate the natural
beauty all around us. Crowborough
News editor, Iain Luxford, shares
his favourite East Sussex walk.
One of the best things about living
in East Sussex is the abundance of
countryside in which the walker can
find peace and quiet. The coastline,
the High Weald, the Ashdown
Forest, and the majestic landscape
of the South Downs all provide
opportunities for escape from normal
life and routine.
Chocolate box villages, a river
valley, flint cottages, chalk downland,
a bit of forest, and some astonishing
views down to the sea all feature
in my favourite East Sussex walk,
the first half of which follows the
South Downs Way.
I’m not going to pretend this six-mile
walk is easy, indeed it features a few
pretty tough uphill sections. But it’s a
journey that takes you from Alfriston
down the Cuckmere Valley to Exceat
and back. To enjoy it properly you
should allow at least four hours.
Nowadays it’s a glorious and
peaceful venture into the best
countryside East Sussex has to offer
but the history of smugglers using this
valley to secretly transport goods in
from the sea hangs heavy in the air.
STEP ONE — ALFRISTON
TO LITLINGTON
At the start resist the temptation to
linger in Alfriston with its atmospheric
shops, tea rooms, pubs and flint
cottages, as there will be time for all
of that upon your return. Instead take
the path to the left of the church that
leads down towards the river and
cross a white pedestrian bridge to a
footpath the other side. A sign invites
you to follow the South Downs Way to
Exceat. As you begin your walk down
the valley towards the sea watch out
for livestock, especially cows, which
are often to be found grazing in these
lush fields. And if they have calves with
them, take special care.
Follow this clear route for
approximately a mile along the
winding river bank until the path
splits. Keep left, still following the
South Downs Way, and you’ll arrive
in the Saxon village of Litlington.
It’s reported that Maria Fitzherbert,
mistress of George IV, lived at
Clapham house in the village. The
first pub and refreshment options
present themselves in Litlington, and
Tripadvisor reviews would suggest
the Plough and Harrow is definitely
worth a detour.
STEP TWO — LITLINGTON
TO WEST DEAN
Carry on through the village to the end
of the high street where the road turns
sharp right. Don’t follow the road but
take a slight turn to the left and you
will see the village hall. Take the South
Downs Way path signposted to the left
of the building.
A seriously deep breath is needed
here because the path steepens
considerably over a couple of fields
until you eventually reach a high
point with a large downland farm on
your left, marked as Clapham Barn on
the OS map. Follow the South Downs
Way straight ahead as it follows the
hedgerow downhill towards a small
woodland, with Charleston Manor
marked on the map. Turn left at the
bottom of this path then don’t miss a
fork to the right after a few metres.
This path takes you up another steep
uphill into the Forestry Commissions’
Friston Forest. The forest is crisscrossed
with footpaths and, on
another day, is well worth exploring.
It’s almost 2,000 acres of woodland,
mainly beech, and home to a wide
range of animal and plant species.
On our walk, though, as you emerge
from the woodland onto a wide track
(and catch your breath) keep on the
main path, ignoring large pathways
to the left, the right and then the left
again. You will come to a fork in the
path and you should keep left (still the
South Downs Way) making your way
down a path behind some houses to a
sharp right turn.
STEP THREE — WEST
DEAN TO EXCEAT
Follow the track down into West
Dean and continue straight through
this small village. You would never
guess it now, given West Dean’s sleepy
quietness, but King Alfred the Great
had a palace in the village, and it is
possible this was one of his naval main
bases in his war with the Vikings!
It’s the South Downs Way path you
need to take out of the village and
it’s easy to spot as long as you don’t
deviate off your straight path. You’ll
see an information point behind a
green vehicle gate beside the pond.
The path is directly ahead and
ascends through more woodland.
The climb up is long and tiring but is
made easy by built-in sleeper steps
and is, I absolutely promise, worth
the effort and exercise.
When you emerge from this
woodland climb you will see a flint
wall and, beyond it, the reward for

Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news MAY 2026 FEATURE 19
all your effort is laid out in front of
you. Take time to enjoy one of the
most iconic views in the county
as, standing on the Downs, you
look down on the meanders of the
Cuckmere River below.
Those meanders, as geographers
will tell you, were formed by the flow
of the river as it eroded and deposited
parts of the river bank. But the
meanders are a snapshot of history
because in 1847 a straight cut was put
in the river (look over towards the pub
and you will see it) which effectively
diverted any flow from the meanders
and instead sent it straight up to the
sea. Pause on the bench to catch your
breath and drink in this astonishingly
beautiful scene.
The path down is a welcome respite
after your exertions and it takes you
down to the Seven Sisters Country Park
Centre at Exceat (pronounced Ex-seat)
where you can learn a bit more about
the flora and fauna of this remarkable
area, and also have a welcome loo
stop. Until the 14th century, Exceat
was an important village with its own
church but the village suffered French
raids and was effectively abandoned
by the 15th century.
STEP FOUR — EXCEAT TO
“HIGH AND OVER”
At this point in the walk you have
a choice. For the more active and
ambitious there is the option of
crossing the road and following the
South Downs Way, or the made up
path, down to the sea. It’s definitely
worth a walk and you are pretty
much guaranteed the sight of wading
birds, little Egrets, and the distinctive
continuous twittering sound of
skylarks overhead. But you’ll be adding
at least three miles to your walk.
If you choose not to take this
extension turn right and follow the
footpath beside the road towards the
Cuckmere Inn. As you do so look out
for kayakers and paddleboarders
enjoying the river on the left,
perhaps taking lessons from the
Watersports Centre, Buzz Active, at
the river’s edge.
Take care on the footpath as this is
a busy road and as you head towards
the pub look out for the path on
the right just before the small road
bridge. You need to take this path to
begin your journey back along the
river towards Alfriston. So, heading
north again, you should be following
the river and on the right-hand bank.
You will have lovely views of the
hillside on your left as you pass Ewe
Down and Brock Hole Down.
If the tide is low and the mudbanks
are exposed look out for a variety
of wading birds including the easy
to spot Redshanks (bright orange/
red legs) and herons. The journey is
now an easy one beside the river but
be sure not to miss the huge white
horse cut into the chalk hillside at
“High and Over”, on your left after
about a mile.
STEP FIVE — HIGH AND
OVER TO ALFRISTON
Past the white horse you’ll soon
come to a bridge, New Bridge. Cross
here and continue your walk on the
left bank of the river. Of course, if
you have a bit of excess energy, you
could go backwards on this path for
a diversion up to the white horse and
High and Over. Once again there is
quite a climb but that investment of
energy will be richly rewarded with
a spectacular vista capturing pretty
much your entire route.
Back on the path head north again
towards Alfriston, which soon
becomes easily visible in the distance
thanks to its church spire. As you
approach the village take some time
to appreciate the Old Clergy House
on your left — the first ever property
bought by the National Trust in 1896.
This rare 14th-century thatched,
timber framed Wealden hall-house is
in an idyllic setting, with views across
the River Cuckmere, and surrounded
by a delightful, tranquil cottage
garden full of wildlife.
THE START AND FINISH —
ALFRISTON VILLAGE
Arriving back in the village you have
a choice of pubs and tea rooms in
which to rest your legs and reflect on
the marvellous walk you have just
enjoyed. The famous hymn, Morning
Has Broken, written by Eleanor
Farjeon in 1931 was apparently
inspired by the beauty of Alfriston
— and it’s easy to see why as the
village is quintessentially beautiful.
Incidentally, the origin of name of
Alfriston comes from the original
name for the settlement, Aelfric tun,
which meant the ‘farmstead of Alfric’
in Anglo Saxon times. And I was told
(by Denis Healy, village resident and
former Chancellor of the Exchequer,
no less) it should be pronounced “allfriston”
not “Alf-friston”.
Amongst the many picturesque
buildings surrounding you one of
particular historical importance is
the Star Inn. Originally a religious
hostel built in 1345 it was used to
accommodate monks and pilgrims
en route from Battle Abbey to the
shrine of St Richard, patron saint of
Sussex, at Chichester Cathedral. It
became an inn in the 16th century
and opened its doors to a very
different type of clientele as the
infamous Alfriston smuggling gang
used it as a base. Outside the Inn is
a red Lion, once the figurehead of
a Dutch ship which was wrecked
in the 1800’s.
MORE INFORMATION
If this has whetted your appetite to
get out in the amazing countryside
of East Sussex you can get more
information on walking in the county,
including a comprehensive map of the
county’s rights of way, some suggested
circular walks, and details of guided
walks, at: www.eastsussex.gov.uk/
leisureandtourism/countryside/walks

20 REGULARS
MAY 2026
Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news
U3A
DIVERSE PASSIONS AT CROWBOROUGH U3A
Crowborough u3a is one of the busiest
in the country, boasting more than
700 members and 85 different interest
groups. This month, we focus on two
very different groups: the Detectorists
and Creative Writing 2.
DIGGING INTO THE PAST:
THE DETECTORISTS
Our metal detecting group, also known
as “Pastfinders,” has recently been
reactivated after a lengthy period of
inactivity. The group is looking forward
to exploring new sites and areas, and
we would welcome any new members
— particularly anyone who has legal
permission to access places of historical
interest, such as farmland or derelict
buildings.
The group strictly observes the
guidelines recommended by the National
Council for Metal Detecting. While
ownership of a detector is advisable, it
is not essential; however, enthusiasm
for the hobby and the great outdoors
certainly is! Steering meetings take place
on the second Monday of every month
to coordinate venues for investigation.
We also undertake limited searches for
lost property, such as rings misplaced
while gardening. If this interests you,
please contact the Group Leader, Alan
Ground, via Crowborough u3a.
TALES, TEA, AND TRADITION:
CREATIVE WRITING 2
Our group, currently numbering ten
“individual individuals,” meets on the
first Friday afternoon of every month at
members’ homes on a rota basis. During
these sessions, stories and occasional
poems—based on topics suggested at
previous meetings—are read aloud. There
is always a terrific mix of subject matter,
ranging from crime and humour to
sci-fi. A general discussion of the work
invariably follows, accompanied by tea
and cake.
Beyond our monthly meetings, we
visit local sites of literary interest
annually, such as Bateman’s (the home
of Rudyard Kipling) and Sissinghurst
(associated with Virginia Woolf).
During the festive season, we also
attempt to write and perform abridged
versions of traditional pantomimes
like Aladdin or Snow White — if only
to prove our talents are certainly not
thespian! We are not currently taking
on new members, but we suggest
contacting Crowborough u3a directly if
you would like to find out more about
similar groups.
VMA FITNESS with Ellie Lear
HEALTH AND FITNESS:
SUMMER FITNESS HABITS
vmafitness.co.uk
THE mornings are brighter and the
evenings are longer after the spring
time clock change which makes it
more appealing to get outside for
your daily movement and eat with a
fresher approach.
The lighter and longer evenings make
it more enticing to embrace the summer
evenings, getting out for walk, taking
the children to the park after dinner or
jumping on your bicycles for bike ride
with the family.
Summer offers the perfect opportunity
to build healthy habits, even getting
outside to do some much needed
gardening provides great exercise
and a breath of fresh air after a day
in the office.
Taking time outside will also increase
the boost the production of vitamin D in
the body which is linked to supporting
bone health, improved mood and
also can help to reduce the risks of
depression. Being outdoors can feel
more enjoyable and energising.
You might feel invigorated with the
brighter mornings to use the time to get
your movement in before the rest of the
day gets started, maybe try an early
morning dog walk, an early exercise
class or simply use the time for some
gentle yoga at home as the sun rises.
Making that time in the morning will
lift your mood and your energy levels
for the rest of the day- it’s definitely
worth the extra effort. Try this simple
morning workout:
10 x Star Jumps
10 x Squats
10 x Press Ups
10 x Lunges
Repeat this six times to get your heart
rate up in the morning.
It’s really important to keep up with
your daily hydration as the summer
temperatures start to appear, drinking
plenty of water throughout the day will
help to keep you alert and hydrated
especially if you are exercising or
spending lots of time outside enjoying
the warmer weather.
Eating seasonally in the summer
is really vital in maintaining summer
health. Seasonal fruits like berries
and summer vegetables such as leafy
greens will all add essential vitamins
to your diet as well as creating light
and refreshing meals. Try a new
summer salad to boost your daily
number of plant points and nutritional
value in your day.
Why not set yourself the challenge of
three new healthy habits this month?
1. Get outside for a 20
min walk each day
2. Drink an extra glass of
water in the morning
3. Go to be 30 mins earlier to get the
rest you deserve
Overall, the start of summer is the
perfect time to kickstart or refresh
your fitness routing, embrace summer
eating and create or maintain your daily
movement habits.

Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news MAY 2026 REGULARS 21
ASHDOWN FOREST with Beth Morgan
NEW spring life continues to arrive as
migrating birds make their way back
to the Forest. By now perhaps you
have heard the distant call of a cuckoo,
or even the mystical churring of the
nightjar as they hawk for flying insects
at dawn and dusk while seeking out
their breeding territories for the season.
Other creatures are less immediately
obvious, with adders basking in the
warmth of the sun as lizards and green
tiger beetles scurry across sandy rides.
Cattle and sheep have now returned
to the Forest, re-uniting with the
Exmoor ponies who spent the winter
nibbling away on the abundant gorse.
The Commoners’ livestock are roaming
freely in the permanently fenced South
Chase area of the Forest, while the
Conservators’ cattle, sheep and ponies
are located in temporary electricfenced
or virtual enclosures which
will move around the Forest over the
coming months where, unwittingly for
them, they will do sterling heathland
restoration work as they munch away
on the grasses and scrub.
The locations of the livestock is
available via the Ashdown Forest
website (ashdownforest.org/
grazing-status/).
If you’re out walking with your dog on
the Forest, always keep your dog with
you and in sight, ideally on a lead around
livestock and with paws on the paths to
help protect vulnerable ground nesting
birds on the open heathland.
As we celebrate the centenary of
the Forest’s famous yellow bear,
there is plenty of opportunity to get
involved. Last month saw the launch
of the Forest’s third annual poetry
competition in partnership with the
Royal Literary Fund and The Ashdown
Forest Foundation.
This year, inspired by Pooh, entrants
are asked to write on the theme of
‘Friendship’. The winners will be selected
by a stellar line-up of judges including
former Children’s Laureate Joseph
Coelho, author of the new authorised
Winnie-the-Pooh stories Jane Riordan,
New York Times-bestseller Kathryn
Aalto, leading poet and RLF trustee
Fiona Sampson, and life-long Pooh fan
and author Gyles Brandreth.
Entries can be made until 8th May
via the Forest’s website and winners
will be invited to a special event on the
Forest in July. Find out more and submit
entries at ashdownforest.org/explore/
poetry-competition/.
On 16th and 17th May, there is a rare
opportunity to visit the spectacular
gardens of Cotchford Farm near
Hartfield. The former home of the Milne
family, it is from here that Christopher
Robin and his father would head out on
the walks up onto Ashdown Forest, the
place that inspired the 100 Acre Wood.
All funds from this event will support
The Ashdown Forest Foundation, the
charitable arm of the Conservators of
Ashdown Forest tasked with raising
funds to ensure the best possible future
for the Forest. Tickets are limited and
must be purchased in advance via the
Foundation at ashdownforestfdn.org.
And finally, a spectacular free event
is set to take place on Ashdown Forest
on 18th and 19th July. A fantastical new
creature will be revealed to the world
in the form of a larger than life puppet,
alongside a range of family activities
and celebrations. Make sure to sign up
for updates at thebigonehundred.co.uk
to receive updates and to snap up free
tickets as soon as they’re available.
The creature will go on tour to various
locations across the Wealden district
over the summer months.
68%
NOTICE ADVERTS IN
THIS NEWSPAPER
Why wouldn’t you advertise
your business here?
A recent independent survey
showed almost 70% of people
asked in the street said they
noticed adverts printed in
in their local newspaper.
10,000 copies of this newspaper are
printed and distributed every month.
Email: sales@regionalmediagroup.co.uk
Call: 01892 577 124
Survey conducted in March 2026 by Insight6, an
independent research company. Figure stated is the
result of a survey of 600 people.

2 5 7 1 8 9 4 3 6
22 PUZZLES
MAY 2026
Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news
PUZZLES
WORDSEARCH
Pairs of Things
Can you find all the listed words hidden in the grid below?
They may run either forwards or backwards, horizontally,
vertically or diagonally, but always in a straight line.
BINOCULARS
CASTANETS
CHOPSTICKS
CRUTCHES
DICE
EYES
FEET
JEANS
LUNGS
MARACAS
SCISSORS
SHEARS
SHOES
SHORTS
SKATES
SPURS
STAYS
TWINS
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
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K
L
M
K S H N O Q G S V G L I G
Y F E T I V H S E D H V I
V I O H P V G G T O I S S
M A R A C A S N I L H C J
C S E L T T V U X E L S E
T H L B W C U L A S A R C
E S O Q I Z V R R S B A S
T R Z P N K S N C H E L T
W U I K S Q E I J O R U E
S P S Y A T S J X R I C N
E S Q N A S I Y C T N O A
Y H S N O F Q C S S T N T
E M E R S E T A K S E I S
G S S X J E A N S S R B A
T X A Q L T J J O O S E C
Each letter of the alphabet has a different number. Substitute numbers
for letters to make words that will complete the puzzle. The letters at
the side and the check-box below the grid may help you keep track.
Check-box
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13
14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26
P
CODEWORD
25 1 12 20 24 22 15 3 13 24 2 6 12 8
1 6 7 17 22
13 10 20 19 11 11 5 12 8
5 24 11 1 2 7
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20 18 7 19 5 24 7
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16 4 6 7 8 12 7 12
24 16 12 15 12 14 12 8 18 14 13 19 13 8
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Across
1 Hair cleanser (7)
7 Relating to cattle (6)
9 Of the greatest
possible degree (7)
10 Noise made by
a sheep (5)
11 Arrived (4)
12 Groom with
elaborate care (5)
16 Familiar by-form of
the name Henry (5)
17 Capital of Italy (4)
21 Collect or gather,
hoard (5)
22 Dash a liquid upon
or against (7)
23 Custodian (6)
24 Spectator (7)
Down
1 Study of the physical
world (7)
2 At no particular
moment (7)
3 Walked up and down (5)
4 Shoemaker (7)
5 Washing fixture found
in a bathroom (5)
CROSSWORD
1 2 3 4 5 6
9 10
11 12
8
7
13 14 15
16 17
18 19 20
21 22
23
6 Bunk in a ship, train, etc (5)
8 Guerilla (9)
13 Soft wool fabric with a
colourful swirled pattern
of curved shapes (7)
14 Great accumulation
of wealth (7)
15 Bottle up (7)
18 Kegs (5)
19 Tall tower referred to
in the Bible (5)
20 Measure of gold’s purity (5)
SUDOKU CHALLENGE
Place a number (from 1 to 9 inclusive) into each square in
such a way that every digit appears once in each horizontal
row, each vertical column and each box of nine squares.
5 7 8 4 3
4 9
3 4 7 2
6 9 4
5 1
4 6 8
2 6 4 5
5 1
7 6 2 8 9
24
SOLUTIONS
1 7 6 3 2 5 8 9 4
5 3 4 9 7 8 6 2 1
9 8 2 6 1 4 5 7 3
3 4 1 7 6 2 9 8 5
8 2 9 5 4 1 3 6 7
7 6 5 8 9 3 1 4 2
6 9 3 4 5 7 2 1 8
4 1 8 2 3 6 7 5 9
2 5 7 1 8 9 4 3 6
7 6 2 8 9
SUDOKU
Q U E A S Y W H I S T L E D
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I M A G O O B E D I E N C E
B S O U T N N G G
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I G I D
© Puzzle Press Ltd (www.puzzlepress.co.uk)
CODEWORD
S H A M P O O C B B
C N A B O V I N E
I Y C T B D R
E X T R E M E B L E A T
N I D R L T H
C A M E P R E E N
E E P O R F R
H A R R Y R O M E
C B I I C R P
A M A S S S P A T T E R
S B L T R U E
K E E P E R A N S
S L Y W I T N E S S
CROSSWORD
K S H N O Q G S V G L I G
Y F E T I V H S E D H V I
V I O H P V G G T O I S S
M A R A C A S N I L H C J
C S E L T T V U X E L S E
T H L B W C U L A S A R C
E S O Q I Z V R R S B A S
T R Z P N K S N C H E L T
W U I K S Q E I J O R U E
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Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news MAY 2026 SPORT 23
More international medal success
for Crowborough athletes
ATHLETES from Crowborough
have celebrated golden medal
success at the Taekwon-Do
European Championships.
Vision Taekwon-Do based at
VMA Fitness in Crowborough
had seven of its black belt athletes
selected to represent England for
the championships in Maribor,
Slovenia in April.
And the Crowborough based
athletes came away with no fewer
than three Golds, two Silvers and two
Bronzes to record one of the most
successful outings in its 30 years.
Ellena Lobley won Gold in the Adult
Female 3rd Degree Pattern (technical
event), beating 19 of the best in
Europe to take the title.
Gabrielle Lear won Silver in the Pre-
Jnr Female 1st Degree Pattern and
then Gold in -52kgs Sparring, she also
won Gold in Pre-Jnr Pre-Arranged
Sparring (technical event) where
two athletes from the same team
choreograph their own sequence
against each other that has to last
over 60 seconds.
Gabrielle also won the overall
trophy for Pre-Jnr Females having
won the most medals in the age
range in Europe.
Chloe Charteris in her first
international competition
representing England won a Silver
in Junior Female Power Test (Board
breaking) and was part of the team
with Ruby King and Eloise Jenkins
who all smashed boards to win the
Gold in Team Power Test.
Ruby King won a Bronze medal in
Jnr Female -57kgs Sparring as well
as a Bronze with Eloise Jenkins and
Chloe Charteris in Team Pattern
(Choreographed technical sequence
with 5 athletes).
Dexter Williams and Ryan
Hosking-Potton did not medal
this time around, but put in strong
performances to work on and
improve on for the rest of the
international season.
Coach Master Philip Lear said: “I am
extremely proud of each individual
from Crowborough, the athletes have
worked so hard in the lead up to the
Euros from the additional training
sessions we have had to the track
work at Goldsmiths as well as the time
they work on at the gym.
“We have a few international events
coming up and training camps then
we start to prepare for the Taekwon-
Do World Cup that takes place in
Benidorm in September. We have
a large contingent taking part that
includes colour belts and black
belts and the focus is now on getting
sponsors to help the event become a
reality for them”.
Vision Taekwon-Do is celebrating 30
years since starting in Crowborough
in 1996. There will be a party in May
bringing students past and present
together to celebrate what Taekwon-
Do has brought to the community
throughout that time.
Runners star in
Brighton sunshine
Gordon Perry
CONGRATULATIONS to the
Crowborough runners who took
part in the Brighton Marathon
earlier this month.
They included Gordon Berry who
completed the course in an amazing
time of just under three hours and 20
minutes. He has so far raised more
than £900 for Jarvis Brook School.
Then there was Will Applegate who
claimed his finisher’s medal just two
weeks ahead of taking part in the
London Marathon as well!
Will Applegate
Finally, Tom and Nick Harvey not
only took part but also put the town
on the map by finishing first and third
respectively in the over 50s category.
Tom and Nick Harvey
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24 SPORT
MAY 2026
Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news
End of an era for the
Jarvis Brook “Invincibles”
A fourteen -year journey comes to
an end for Jarvis Brook FC U18s.
On Sunday 26 April, Jarvis Brook
FC’s Under 18s played their final
game of the season and, fittingly,
their final match within the club’s
mini and youth sections.
The match marked the conclusion
of an extraordinary fourteen
year journey that began back in
September 2012.
That journey started at Limekiln on
a Saturday morning, when a group
of four and five year olds attended
their very first football taster session
under club coach Ray Kennedy. Two
early seasons were spent learning
the fundamentals of the game before
the team progressed into competitive
football under the guidance of
coaches Dan Hare, Carl Berwick, Tim
Hammond and Gavin Bentley.
Throughout the mini soccer
years, the club’s ethos of fun and
development over results was
central to everything the team did.
Competing with up to four squads
across the Crowborough and District
Junior Football League, the group
experienced victories, defeats, the
occasional tears and, above all, a
great deal of enjoyment.
Each summer brought trips to
tournaments across the south of
England, memorable for their
laughter, camaraderie and generous
consumption of ice creams as much
as for the football itself.
The 2019–20 season saw a shift in
line with FA and league guidance, as
the team moved from mixed ability
football into streamed competition.
Two sides were formed, the Sharks
and the Jaguars, enabling players
to compete against teams of
similar ability.
The Sharks enjoyed an excellent
campaign, reaching the League Cup
semi final and recording a 1–0 win
over Tunbridge Wells. A place in the
final was secured, but the match was
never played after the season was
curtailed by the Covid 19 pandemic.
The following season proved
equally memorable. The team
finished as league runners up but
returned to cup competition in
style, defeating Langton Green 2–0
in the final. The Spring Shield was
also secured, making it a superb
year for players, coaches and
supporters alike.
The 2022–23 season represented
the high point of the team’s
achievements. Jarvis Brook FC
U15s lifted the CDJFL A League
title, retained the League Cup and
once again won the Spring Shield
to complete an outstanding treble.
Adding to the achievement, the side
went the entire season unbeaten,
earning the distinction of becoming
an “Invincible” team.
Seeking stronger competition and
preparing players for the step into
senior football, the team moved
into the Mid Sussex League the
following season. Against higher
level opposition, they continued to
perform to a very high standard,
finishing fourth before ending the
subsequent campaign as runners
up to Lindfield.
This season, the squad has
competed in County League Under
18 football and once again impressed
with their performances. Fourteen of
the sixteen players have featured in
either Under 23 or first team football
during the campaign, a remarkable
achievement and a testament
to the club’s commitment to
developing local players into senior,
Step 6 football.
Jack Berwick, George Brady,
Ted Bentley, Oscar Brady and
Alfie Gilder remain from that
very first session at Under 5 level,
while the rest of the squad have all
accumulated close to one hundred
appearances for the team.
In total, the side has played 178
competitive matches. Jack Berwick
leads the appearance list with
174 matches, followed by George
Brady with 163, Oscar Brady with
161, Ted Bentley with 152 and Alfie
Gilder with 145.
Manager Carl Berwick reflected on
the journey with pride and emotion.
He said: “It has been an absolute
pleasure to coach these boys on a
weekly basis for the past twelve years.
Watching them grow from small
New players needed for
walking rugby team
CROWBOROUGH Rugby
Football Club is looking for
new women players to boost its
walking rugby team.
The club said it had “the absolute
pleasure” of hosting the Cranbrook
Ladies Walking Rugby Team tonight
for their first ever match (friendly).
Several matches played against each
other formally then mixed it up
towards the end for some fun!
The club said it needs more women
to join in. Walking rugby is a game for
both men and women of all ages who
children, through secondary school
and now into senior football has been
an incredible experience.
“They are a wonderful group of
young men, a joy to coach and great
company to be around. They have
become an extension of my family,
and the final game together is going
to be very difficult to get through.
We have created a lifetime of
memories together.”
He also paid heartfelt tribute to the
parents, whose unwavering support
over the years has been a cornerstone
of the team’s journey. “From early
morning pitch set ups and tireless
help at club events, to constant
encouragement from the sidelines
in all weathers, their dedication,
generosity and belief in the boys
never wavered. Their support not
only helped the team thrive on the
pitch, but also played a vital role in
creating the strong, family focused
spirit that has defined this group
throughout their time at the club.”
He also wished to thank fellow
coaches Andrew Weir and Dan Hare
for their invaluable help, guidance
and shared knowledge over the years,
acknowledging the key role they
can play together. Tackling is a twohanded
touch on the upper torso such
as shoulders, arms or back, and the
emphasis is on passing and tactics.
For more information visit:
www.crowboroughrugby.com/
teams/264882
played in supporting both the players
and the wider team environment.
And he expressed his gratitude to
Simon Munday and his company
Prosperity IFA, the team’s sponsor
since their very first kit at Under 7
level, thanking them for their long
standing and loyal support.
As the final whistle approaches,
this chapter of Jarvis Brook FC’s
history draws to a close not only
with trophies and achievements,
but with friendships, memories
and a shared journey that began
with a simple kick of a football on a
Saturday morning.

Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news MAY 2026 SPORT 25
Busy few weeks for Boro
MATCH REPORTS: RICK HOWE
PHOTOS: DENYS CLARKE
BORO 43 – 17 BECCAHAMIANS
When Crowborough and
Beccahamians met earlier in the
season, they shared a 24–24 draw, and
this return fixture promised to be just
as competitive. With both sides sitting
mid-table and separated by only four
points, it was the visitors who made
the brighter start. Straight from the
kick-off, Beccs moved the ball quickly
to exploit space on the left, catching
Crowborough unprepared and
crossing early for a 0–5 lead.
Crowborough responded well, as
they often have this season. Pressure
down the left led to a lineout, where a
loose throw was gathered by Richard
Tasker. Quick hands from Tommy
Dinnis created space for Will Creasey,
who powered through defenders to
score. Jared Hermann converted to
give the hosts a 7–5 advantage.
The first half developed into a tightly
contested battle. Crowborough
extended their lead when Hermann
broke through midfield and offloaded
to Harry Marchesi, who finished well,
although the conversion was missed.
Beccs, however, replied almost
immediately. A loose clearance
allowed their backs to counter-attack
effectively, stretching the defence
to score in the corner before adding
an excellent conversion to level the
match at 12–12.
Penalties began to shape the game,
and one in the Beccs 22 allowed
Crowborough to build pressure.
From the resulting lineout, Dave
Bennett secured possession and
Crowborough Rotary
2026 Charity Golf Day
the forwards drove strongly before
Dinnis released Connor Hand to
score. Hermann’s conversion pushed
the score to 19–12.
Yet Beccs were not done. A
handling error from Crowborough
gifted possession to the visitors,
who capitalised with a sharp
counter-attack and a converted try
under the posts. At half-time, the
score stood at a narrow 19–17, with
Crowborough aware they needed to
improve physically.
The message at the break was clear:
dominate up front and play with
greater control. The response was
emphatic. Crowborough took charge
in the second half, scoring four
unanswered tries.
Pinned deep in their own territory,
Beccs conceded a penalty, and
Bennett took a quick tap to score.
Ed Croft added the conversion.
Despite positional reshuffles due to
injuries, Crowborough maintained
their momentum. Croft’s sharp
distribution set Marchesi free,
who in turn released Josh Jarvis for
a try out wide.
As the match wore on,
Crowborough’s forwards began
to assert dominance. Croft added
another try from close range and
converted it himself. The final score
came from a well-executed lineout
drive, finished by Creasey to seal an
impressive 43–17 victory.
BORO 7 – 35 OLD ELTHAMIANS
Crowborough’s previous fixture
against unbeaten league leaders
Young stars get
England call-up
Old Elthamians proved far more
challenging. Despite optimism
following recent results, late changes
to the squad meant several academy
players were called upon.
Old Elthamians imposed
themselves early with a fast, direct
style of play. Their half-backs dictated
the tempo, repeatedly breaking
through a slow defensive line to gain
significant ground. Quick recycling
allowed them to build pressure, and
they opened the scoring through
close-range forward play.
Crowborough showed glimpses
of promise, advancing into the
opposition 22 on occasion, but were
unable to sustain pressure. Defensive
lapses proved costly, and Old
Elthamians capitalised with clinical
efficiency. By half-time, the visitors
had established a commanding
35–0 lead, scoring five tries in a
dominant display.
The second half told a different
story. Crowborough emerged with
renewed intensity, improving their
line speed and tackling. Big defensive
hits disrupted Old Elthamians’
rhythm and created opportunities.
A near-miss came when Jarvis
chased a kick to the try line, only
to be denied by a close refereeing
decision. Nevertheless, Crowborough
continued to press, and sustained
forward pressure eventually
led to a try for Connor Hand,
converted by Hermann.
While the final score remained
35–7, Crowborough could take pride
in their second-half performance,
having matched their formidable
opponents after the break.
HEATHFIELD AND
WALDRON 38-36 BORO
Crowborough travelled to local rivals,
Heathfield, who were third in the
league and 25 points ahead of Boro,
expecting a tough derby shaped by
Heathfield’s habit of narrow, highscoring
wins. The hosts struck early,
capitalising on loose play to lead 12–0
within ten minutes. Crowborough
responded with greater intensity,
moving the ball wide and creating
chances. Joe Chapman scored their
first converted try, followed by Connor
Hand finishing another well-worked
move to give the visitors a 14–12
lead. Sustained pressure and clinical
attacking saw further tries from Ed
Croft and Josh Jarvis, with Jared
Hermann’s kicking extending the
advantage to 31–12.
Heathfield rallied, exploiting missed
tackles and controversial moments
to close the gap to 31–26. Late drama
unfolded as both sides traded scores,
with Jarvis adding another for
Crowborough before yellow cards
reduced them to 13 men. In a tense
finish, disputed officiating around a
scrum preceded Heathfield’s decisive
try, sealing a dramatic 38–36 victory.
Stars of the
future
CROWBOROUGH Rotary is
gearing up for its flagship Golf
Day Fundraiser on 15 May 2026,
inviting golfers and local businesses
to enjoy a first‐class day on the
renowned Crowborough Beacon
Golf Club course.
The event combines competitive
play with community spirit, raising
vital funds for this year’s nominated
charity ‘Taylor Made Dreams’
Golfers can enter teams for a full
day of friendly competition on one of
Sussex’s most celebrated heathland
courses, while businesses have the
opportunity to sponsor holes, gain
visibility among a highly engaged
local audience, and demonstrate their
commitment to community impact.
This is Rotary’s sixth such event
and each year gets more support for
local good causes.
The fundraiser is open to players of
all abilities looking for a memorable
day out. Sponsors and teams are
encouraged to register early to
secure their place and maximise
promotional opportunities. For entry
details or sponsorship enquiries,
contact admin@crowboroughrotary.
org. www.crowboroughrotary.org
www.crowboroughrotary.org/
rotary-events/golf-dayfundraiser-15th-may-2026/
CONGRATULATIONS to four
members of the Beacon Lifesaving
Club who have been called up to the
England squad.
It’s a huge achievement for Alfie,
Marie, Isla and Harry and yet
another feather in the camp for
the successful Beacon Lifesaving
Club based at Goldsmiths Leisure
Centre. Well done!
ROTHERFIELD Football Club begins
its search for the stars of the future
with a series of free taster sessions
this summer. The sessions, for
children starting reception up to
Year 2, are taking place at the village
recreation ground.

26 SPORT
MAY 2026
Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news
Heartbreak at final hurdle
BY VICKY WAYMAN
CROWBOROUGH Men’s Ones
were within a whisker of a double
promotion with everything riding
on the season’s finale against East
Grinstead. After winning Division
Two last season, the Ones had
revelled in their new Division One
status and took everything into
the final game where they were
second, just two points behind
their opponents East Grinstead
Threes. A huge travelling support
accompanied them in the Oranges
of the Boro, with an excited crowd of
more than 300 present for this title
deciding encounter.
The Crows came with confidence
having beaten them 8-3 at home in
what was a convincing win. However,
hearts were to be broken at the Saint
Hill Road ground, with the Crows
falling to a 5-2 defeat.
A poor start from the visitors saw
them go two down, before they
found their rhythm and began
making chances of their own
with Angus Donaldson and Harry
Turner powering forward at every
opportunity. The experienced
Greg Surridge started to control
the tempo and they looked likely to
make a breakthrough before some
cheap cards saw them lose their
structure. With two more conceded
before the break, the Crows had an
uphill struggle.
A half time team talk by the
excellent captain Harry Hook saw
a newly buoyant side come out
after the break with Hook injecting
perfectly for short corners and the
clinical Cameron McCabe scoring
twice with the perfect placed strikes.
With confidence restored James
Partridge, Sam Chick and Olly
Yeomans powered forward with
Finn Alexander imperious on the
right side. In midfield Jake Flynn
was winning every 50-50 ball and
Ethan Blake was making ground in
the final third. Against the run of
play the home side grabbed a fifth
and as the clock ran down the hardworking
Crows had to admit defeat.
It was a tough result for the side
who had defied all expectations to
Annual awards after
incredible season
BY VICKY WAYMAN
Cameron McCabe scored twice in
the defeat to East Grinstead
finish in second place and the crowd
enthusiastically applauded their
efforts knowing next season they will
be strong contenders for promotion.
Super sixes
celebration
BY VICKY WAYMAN
CROWBOROUGH hockey club had
a celebratory end to the season with
a Super Sixes event in aid of charity.
With Beacon Academy kindly
donating the pitch time for free,
rather than a match fee being paid
the players brought a donation to
the Crowborough Foodbank.
It was a day of superb hockey. The
walking hockey event was won by
Alex Walton-Turner’s team, with
some new members to the sport
taking part and looking the part
straight away.
The u16s also competed in a mixed
competition with Max Coppard’s
young side finishing as victors. In the
afternoon, the Adult Mixed Sixes was
fiercely fought with all seven club
sides represented on the turf.
Eddie Dennett with Foodbank donations
Six nations
Finn and George — Super Sixes
It was the team of Ones captain
Harry Hook that took the win, with
top scorers from the day being
Kate Baxter, Edde Dennett and Jen
Brough; all hitting double figures. The
day’s events were coordinated by the
brilliant Bethy Catling.
IN an incredible season with two
promotions and three top two
finishes, Crowborough Hockey
Club had much to celebrate at their
annual awards.
Team of the year went to the title
winning Women’s Twos who won
Division Three under the leadership
of Josie Mitchell, with Harry Hook’s
Men’s Ones pushing them all the way.
Captain of the year went to master
tactician Jethro Hook who took his
Men’s Twos side to second place and
promotion to Division Two. With all
this success it made sense that head
coach Justin Singleton was named
club person of the year for his tireless
efforts. Also taking awards were
President Hilary Brown and Vicky
Dennett for youth and outreach work.
Umpire of the Year was Keren
Jethro Hook winning captain’s award
Loder who officiated with calm and
authority. Fair play wards went to
Mike Lingley and Meg Shaw.
Most improved titles were taken
by Ted Fulham, Emily Holman
and Flo Fuller. The player awards
went to Millie Rymer Gough and
Angus Donaldson in the Ones;
Eve Taylor and Will Hook in the
Twos; Libby Hamill and Lucas
Justin Singleton club person of the year
Dennett in the Threes and Jennie
Turner in the Fours.
The elite young player awards were
won by Oscar Fulham and Poppy
Cureton while the development
accolades went to Will Rendall,
Amelia Cornwall, Sophia Sharp and
Joe Tabassi-Gill. Club chair Danni
Newitt officiated with Harry Hook
playing his part.
BY VICKY WAYMAN
CROWBOROUGH Hockey Club
provided nine ball patrol volunteers
and four adult mentors for the ‘Six
Nations’ youth internationals at
Tonbridge School.
From the club, Hayden Smith,
Amelia Cornwall, Harry Holman,
Henry Whitney Isla Bysouth, Matilda
Whitney, Aurora and Sophia Sharp
and Sophia Dennett all took to the
sidelines alongside Sussex Young
Umpires and a range of Kent and
Sussex clubs including a big group
from Tunbridge Wells and Hawks
through the Southeast Hockey
Futures organisation.
International squads from U21
down to U16 all competed in the
top-class event with representatives
from England, Scotland, Wales, the
Netherlands, the USA, Belgium and
France providing the skilful hockey.

Latest local news, visit: crowborough.news MAY 2026 SPORT 27
Holding our ground: A season
of resilience for the Crows
Promoted to their highest ever playing level last year, this
season in the Isthmian South East League was never going
to be a walk in the park. Abi reflects on an unprecedented
season for Crowborough Athletic FC.
BY ABI GARETY
PHOTOS: LUKE HAWKES
PHOTOGRAPHY
STEPPING into step 4 football was
always going to test us, to those on
the pitch and those of us off it. The
margins are finer, the opposition
sharper, and the demands, both
physical and mental, are relentless.
This season has been exactly
that, a challenge in every sense.
But as it draws to a close, the most
important fact stands firm. We
secured the points needed to stay
up. In a league like this, that is no
small achievement.
It has not been a straightforward
journey, far from it! The season has
seen a steady turnover of players,
with some moving on and others
arriving to make their mark. That is
the reality at this level. Players come
and players go and there is always
Tom Boddy
a sense of disruption in that cycle.
New players bring fresh energy and
then there the ones thay go on to
bigger things, or at least they like to
think so. Whatever the move, in or
out, one thing for sure is they have all
contributed to our story this year.
Throughout it all, stability has
come from the touchline. Under
the leadership of Sean Muggeridge,
supported by trusted head coach
Dan Wood, the team has continued
Jarvis Brook FC: Progress and
Pride in a Season of Growth
to grow. There has been no panic,
even when results have tested belief.
Instead, there has been a clear sense
of direction and an understanding
that progress at this level does not
come overnight. Resilience has been
just as important as quality.
There have been moments
that showed exactly what this
team is capable of.
Recognition came along the way,
with a Game of the Month award from
the league in the velocity cup against
Chatham Town FC. It was the kind of
performance that reminds you why
you stick with it, even through the
tougher spells. It was proof that when
everything clicks, this group can
compete with anyone.
Of course, it has not all been
smooth. There have been heavy
defeats, games where things simply
did not go our way and lessons
were learned the hard way. Those
lows have been balanced by some
remarkable highs. Perhaps none
more so than the 3–1 victory away
at Margate FC. It was not a result
many would have predicted. Even
within our own camp, there was
an awareness of how tough that
challenge would be. Yet, despite
a disjointed team and all the
external doubts, the players found
something. They showed character,
discipline, and a clinical edge when
it mattered most. That result did not
just earn three points, it reinforced
belief to everyone.
Beyond results, this season has also
been about recognising contribution,
both past and present.
A proud moment for the club came
with Sean Muggeridge receiving a
civic award from the town council,
acknowledging his ongoing
contribution to sport in the local area.
It is a reminder that football clubs like
ours are about more than just what
happens on a Saturday afternoon.
They are part of the community
fabric, shaped by people who give
their time, energy, and commitment
year after year.
Then there is one name that
deserves special mention,
Tom ‘Bodds’ Boddy.
In an era where loyalty in football
can feel increasingly rare, Bodds
stands apart. Joining as a youth
player and spending his entire
career at Crowborough, he has
been a constant through changing
squads, management teams, and
league challenges. Six hundred and
fifty appearances is more than just
a number, it reflects dedication,
resilience, and genuine love and
pride for the club.
As he steps back to take some wellearned
rest, his absence will be felt.
Not just on the pitch, but around the
club as a whole. Players like Tom
do not come along often. His legacy
is already secure, whether that is
in the record books, the dressing
room stories, or the standards he has
helped set. When someone gives that
much to a club, it matters.
Looking back, this season has not
been defined by perfection, it has
been defined by persistence. By
coming together and always finding a
way, even when things were not quite
right. Survival at Step 4 might not
grab headlines elsewhere, but within
this club it represents something
significant. It is a foundation, a
platform to build from, and a sign that
we belong at this level. If this season
has shown anything, it is that there
is more to come.
BY JOSH ALLCORN
IT has been a defining stretch of the
season for Jarvis Brook FC, with
the first team showing resilience
and character following a period of
transition both on and off the pitch.
From the clash with Reigate Priory
on March 17 through to the recent
trip to Godalming Town on April 18,
results have reflected the challenges
of competing at this level for the first
time. There have been highs and
lows, but the squad has continued to
battle, demonstrating clear progress
as the season has unfolded.
A key factor in stabilising the
side has been the impact of new
management. Rafferty Pearce and
Andy Garrett have led superbly from
the sidelines, bringing energy and
direction during a crucial period. On
the pitch, leadership has been equally
evident, with George Holman and
Liam Edwards setting the standard
and driving the team forward.
Defeats in mid-March against
Infinity and Reigate Priory
were followed by a draw at
home to Uckfield.
However, the boys turned on the
style against Loxwood on the 28th
with an impressive 4-0 victory. Jimmy
Hoy and Liam Edwards continue to
be among the goals for the team while
young Ted Whittington continues his
remarkable rise through the teams
to play a key part and grabbed his
first senior goal!
Most recently we went to league
champions Godalming on the 18th
and a very impressive 3-0 away
win put a dampener on the home
team celebrations.
Despite its ups and downs, the unity
between players, staff and supporters
has remained unwavering,
with the club and its fans fully
behind the team.
Beyond the first team, the reserves
have experienced a mixed run
of results but continue to show
encouraging signs. The increasing
involvement of Under-18 players has
been a major positive, highlighting a
strong pathway for development and
the long-term future of the club.
At youth level, results have
varied across the age groups, but
the emphasis remains firmly on
development. Each team continues
to represent the club with pride,
both in their performances and
their conduct, reflecting the strong
values embedded throughout
Jarvis Brook FC.
The club’s commitment to growth
continues off the pitch as well, with
a youth taster session scheduled
for April 25 — an opportunity to
welcome new players into the Jarvis
Brook community.
A particularly emotional moment
came on Sunday 19th, as the Under-18
side played their final game together
at the club’s ground. Managed by
Carl Berwick for the past 13 years,
the occasion marked the end of a
remarkable journey. It was a fitting
send-off, with a large crowd gathered
in the sunshine, representing
generations of the club. Berwick’s
dedication and influence have left
a lasting legacy, and the players
depart with immense pride in all
they have achieved.
As the season draws to a close, Jarvis
Brook FC stands united — a club built
on commitment, development and
a deep sense of community, with
strong foundations for the future.

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